A Canada-Israel rift is widening over UN votes and sanctions
The recent conflict between Israel and Iran has put a temporary hold on the strained relationship between Israel and some of its main Western allies. However, it is unlikely to bridge the growing gap between them over Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank.
Former Canadian ambassador to Israel, Jon Allen, expressed his concerns about the deteriorating relationship between Canada and Israel, stating that it is not in great shape and rightfully so. The divide between the two countries widened when the Carney government took a firm stand against Israel’s war in Gaza, voting in favor of a UN motion that was similar to one the Trudeau government had previously abstained from.
The Trudeau government cited its support for the creation of a Palestinian state and the role of the International Court of Justice in upholding international rules. However, they could not support a resolution that solely blamed Israel for the conflict. Despite initial reservations, Canada ultimately supported targeted sanctions on individuals involved in settler violence, a move that further strained relations with Israel.
Israel’s reaction to Canada’s threat of sanctions was met with criticism from Allen, who described Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s response as despicable and vile. Netanyahu accused Canada, France, and the U.K. of emboldening Hamas, further escalating tensions between the countries.
The United States, under the Trump administration, showed unwavering support for Israel and criticized Canada, Britain, Australia, New Zealand, and Norway for imposing sanctions on Israeli cabinet ministers. The U.S. ambassador to Israel invited the sanctioned ministers to the U.S. embassy as a show of solidarity.
Despite pressure from the U.S., Canada voted in favor of a UN resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, signaling a departure from its previous abstention. Canada’s decision to attend a planned summit aimed at reviving the hope for a two-state solution, despite U.S. warnings, demonstrates its commitment to its own foreign policy decisions.
While the summit has been postponed due to the conflict between Israel and Iran, Allen believes that Canada will eventually attend, possibly in conjunction with other countries that have recognized the state of Palestine. He argues that recognizing Palestine would send a message to Israel that it does not have a veto over the establishment of a Palestinian state.
In conclusion, the strained relationship between Israel and its Western allies, including Canada, is unlikely to improve in the near future. The conflict in Gaza and the West Bank has highlighted the deep divisions between the parties, and the path to reconciliation remains uncertain.
