Ottawa, Canada – Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed horror over Israeli airstrikes that killed civilians in Rafah, Gaza Strip, earlier this week. Speaking on Parliament Hill, Trudeau emphasized that Canada does not support Israel’s military operations in Rafah and has been advocating for a ceasefire at the United Nations since December.
Gruesome images of children injured in airstrikes and fires among displaced people emerged two days before Trudeau’s statement. Rafah had become a refuge for over a million Palestinians fleeing Israeli attacks.
While Canada initially supported Israel’s right to self-defense following the October 7 Hamas attack, Trudeau stated that Canada urged Israel against proceeding with an offensive in Rafah. Israel claims that Rafah is a Hamas stronghold critical to their operations, describing the recent civilian casualties as a tragic mistake.
Humanitarian organizations, including the Mennonite Central Committee, argue that Rafah is too densely populated for safe military operations, warning of the catastrophic humanitarian situation now unfolding.
“Israel’s military operations in Rafah have created a catastrophic humanitarian situation, in line with the repeated predictions and warnings of the humanitarian community,” a joint statement from these groups read.
Trudeau voiced concerns about the humanitarian crisis, highlighting the reported 36,000 deaths in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry. He called for increased humanitarian aid and the release of all hostages.
When questioned on Canada’s potential actions, Trudeau did not provide further details and walked away from reporters.
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