Oct
Statement from The Coalition of the Canadian Palestinian Organizations
Written by Coalition of Canadian Palestinian OrganizationsOct 7 2023
The Coalition of the Canadian Palestinian Organizations expresses profound concern regarding the continuing violence in Palestine and Israel. We firmly object to statements that unconditionally support the Israeli government, as they perpetuate a troubling trend of overlooking the underlying causes of this violence. We firmly assert that the loss of civilian lives is never acceptable. Nevertheless, the violence we are witnessing today underscores the daily hardships faced by Palestinians, whether due to Israel's severe blockade of Gaza, persistent attacks on Palestinian civilians by settlers, or the unlawful occupation of Palestinian territories.
The Coalition of Canadian Palestinian Organizations reiterates its strong condemnation of all forms of violence and opposes any form of discrimination.
The present violence serves as a harsh reminder of the consequences of a 75-year-long unchecked occupation, the continuous expansion of illegal settlements, the ongoing denial of fundamental rights to Palestinians, a severe blockade, and a persisting system of apartheid. Unfortunately, the Canadian government, in conjunction with the international community, has consistently disregarded early warnings and Palestinian appeals to halt Israel's aggressions against the Palestinian people. These violations include grave disrespect for holy sites and places of worship within the occupied Palestinian territories, sacred to both Islam and Christianity. For two decades, we have implored the Canadian government and the international community to lift the 17-year-long illegal blockade that has ensnared Gaza.
In the immediate term, we call upon the Government of Canada, in collaboration with the international community, to employ all diplomatic means to de-escalate the situation, demand restraint from Israel, and remind Israel of its legal obligations as an occupying power to safeguard those living under its harsh occupation.
Furthermore, we urge the Government of Canada to refrain from issuing one-sided statements that unconditionally support Israel. It requires courage to acknowledge that the international community's pattern of affirming such unconditional and unchecked support has not contributed to peace but has instead provided diplomatic cover for Israel's violent actions against Palestinians.
Furthermore, the Canadian government should release a statement condemning Israeli attacks on residential buildings and civil society structures, which have resulted in the deaths of more than 200 civilians. Reports suggest that violence is escalating, leading to even more civilian casualties. In response, Canada should cease all arms trade with Israel and suspend the Free-Trade Agreement with Israel.
Finally, we call on the Government of Canada, in collaboration with the international community, to prioritize the resolution of the Israel-Palestine issue. Peace in the region remains elusive, partly due to the international community's reluctance to address root causes and hold Israel accountable for violating international law. A solution can only be achieved with the full participation of the Palestinian people, adherence to international law, and an end to the occupation. Without these measures, we will continue to be trapped in an ongoing cycle of violence. We implore the Canadian government to demand accountability from those responsible for recent developments, with both Canada and the international community playing crucial roles.
