Carney condemns Israeli blockade on food to Gaza
Liberal Leader Mark Carney Calls on Israel to Allow World Food Programme to Work in Gaza
Liberal Leader Mark Carney has urged Israel to allow the World Food Programme to operate in Gaza, emphasizing that food should not be used as a “political tool.” This call comes after the UN agency reported running out of supplies due to a sustained Israeli blockade on food and humanitarian aid.
The World Food Programme (WFP) announced that it had delivered its last remaining supplies to kitchens providing hot meals in Gaza, and these facilities are expected to run out of food in the coming days. Carney took to social media to express his concern, stating that “food cannot be used as a political tool” in response to the Israeli Government’s blockade.
According to the UN agency, Gaza has not received any humanitarian or commercial supplies for over seven weeks due to the closure of all main border crossing points. This prolonged closure is the longest that the Gaza Strip has ever faced, leading to a critical shortage of essential supplies.
“Palestinian civilians should not suffer the consequences of Hamas’ actions,” Carney emphasized. “The World Food Programme must be allowed to resume its life-saving work in Gaza.”
Israel has previously denied claims of a hunger crisis in Gaza, attributing the situation to Hamas militants exploiting aid supplies. The military asserts that it must prevent the fighters from accessing supplies, leading to the blockade.
The Gaza government media office has warned that famine is becoming a reality for the 2.3 million people living in the enclave. The recent escalation of violence following a collapsed ceasefire in January has resulted in numerous casualties and displacements.
In response to the crisis, Canada has committed nearly $100 million to support the UN and other international partners in delivering food and humanitarian aid to Gaza and the West Bank. Carney reaffirmed Canada’s dedication to working with allies towards a permanent ceasefire and the safe return of all hostages.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has also urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to allow the entry of food and medicine into Gaza, highlighting the global concern for the humanitarian situation in the region.
As Canada’s federal election approaches on Monday, the issue of humanitarian aid in Gaza remains a pressing concern for political leaders and the international community.
