Urgent Call for Action: Protect Palestinian Civilians from Disproportionate Force Under Israeli Apartheid​

Justice For All Canada is deeply concerned by the ongoing humanitarian impact and human toll on Palestinian civilians caught in the crossfire in Gaza and the Occupied West Bank. The escalating violence is likely to trigger anti-Palestinian attacks in the West Bank, posing further risks to civilians living in these areas. We call for an immediate ceasefire and a negotiated resolution.

Medical sources in Gaza report that at least 232 Palestinians were killed by Israeli air attacks. Among the casualties are children, women, and the elderly. The indiscriminate nature of this violence is an unacceptable response to a reported offensive by Hamas.

"In conflicts involving a heavily armed state like Israel and non-state actors, the disproportionate burden of harm falls on vulnerable groups," said Taha Ghayyur, Executive Director. "It is regrettable that Prime Minister Trudeau's statement did not acknowledge or condemn the violence facing Palestinians," he added.

Shockingly, healthcare facilities have become targets. Israeli strikes have hit an Indonesian hospital and an ambulance in front of the Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza. These attacks resulted in the loss of a nurse and an ambulance driver, as well as injuries to several others and damage to a crucial oxygen station. Attacks on healthcare infrastructure are clear violations of international law. Humanitarian access also remains a challenge, with medical crews struggling to reach areas targeted by Israeli air raids. This hinders the timely provision of medical care to Palestinians in need and exacerbates the already dire situation.

The terrible events in Gaza underscore the urgent need to halt the severe violence stemming from Israel's military occupation and apartheid of the Palestinian territories. 2023 was one of the bloodiest years, with the number of Palestinians killed already exceeding more than 200, including women and minors. The July 2023 Israeli operation in Jenin alone led to more than 140 casualties.

While we unequivocally condemn violence, we emphasize that a fair and comprehensive approach is necessary. This includes recognizing the collateral damage of Palestinian civilians caught in the conflict, and protecting them accordingly.

Canada has consistently opposed Palestinian pursuit of justice through non-violent avenues, including participation in the United Nations General Assembly, engagement with the International Court of Justice, and involvement with the International Criminal Court.

Especially in times of conflict involving marginalized communities, Canada holds a significant role in advocating for the protection of Palestinian civilian lives and upholding international humanitarian law.

• Canada should urge all involved to enact a ceasefire.
• We urge the Canadian government to acknowledge Palestinian victims and casualties of the Israeli government.
• We urge the Canadian government to use its influence to press Israeli authorities to respect the principles of distinction and proportionality, safeguard healthcare facilities, and ensure access to those in need.