Carney says IDF fired shots near Canadians in West Bank are ‘totally unacceptable’
Prime Minister Mark Carney has expressed outrage over the recent incident involving members of the Israeli army firing shots near a diplomatic delegation that included Canadians in the West Bank. Carney described the incident as “totally unacceptable” and called for a full investigation and immediate explanation of what transpired.
The Canadian government confirmed that four Canadian personnel, including two Canadians and two local staff, were part of a tour in the city of Jenin when the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) fired shots in their vicinity. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand’s office stated that they are taking the matter seriously and will be summoning the Israeli ambassador to convey Canada’s serious concerns.
Anand expressed relief that the Canadian team is safe and emphasized the importance of accountability in the situation. The IDF stated that the tour group deviated from the approved route, leading soldiers to fire warning shots to prompt the delegation to move. While the IDF expressed regret for any inconvenience caused, Anand joined other foreign ministers in condemning the incident.
Former Canadian ambassador to Israel, Jon Allen, described the incident as “unheard of” and criticized the lack of proper protection for diplomats in the West Bank. Carney, along with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, had previously threatened to impose sanctions on Israel in response to their denial of essential humanitarian assistance in Gaza.
In response to the joint statement from the Western leaders, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to control Gaza despite international pressure to lift the blockade on aid supplies. Netanyahu condemned the statement and accused the leaders of rewarding Hamas for their attacks on Israel.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre also criticized Carney’s joint statement, arguing that threatening Israel with sanctions while Hamas continues to attack is misguided. Carney informed U.S. Vice President JD Vance of the statement during a meeting in Rome, but did not provide specific details on potential actions Canada may take if Israel does not change course.
Political science professor Thomas Juneau believes that only significant pressure from the U.S. could influence Israel’s decision-making. While aid groups warn of a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Israel has begun allowing some humanitarian trucks into the region but has not yet facilitated the distribution of food and supplies to those in need.
The situation remains tense as diplomatic efforts continue to address the escalating tensions in the region. Carney, along with other world leaders, remains committed to finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict and ensuring the safety and well-being of all those involved.
