Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney sharply criticised Israel on Monday, calling the treatment of activists detained aboard a Gaza-bound aid flotilla “appalling” and describing conditions in Gaza as “catastrophic,” according to a statement from his office.
Carney told Israeli President Isaac Herzog that the handling of the activists, including Canadian citizens, was “unacceptable” and called for an independent investigation into the incident.
He also reiterated Canada’s opposition to Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank, settler violence, and attacks on Palestinian civilians. The remarks reflect widening strains in relations between Israel and some of its traditionally close allies.
The criticism follows allegations by organizers that activists detained after attempting to deliver aid to Gaza faced abuse in custody, with several reportedly hospitalised and at least 15 alleging sexual assault, including rape. Israel’s prison service has denied the claims.
Separately, Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand said she had raised concerns with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, saying Canada would provide evidence regarding the alleged mistreatment of Canadian citizens and objecting to what she described as denial of consular access in violation of the Vienna Convention.
Saar, in turn, defended Israel’s position and said the activists had been influenced by Hamas. He also urged Canada to take stronger action against rising antisemitic incidents in the country.
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