Canada's toolkit for peace in the Middle East
For the past 15 months, you have advocated with us for a ceasefire in Gaza. Now, we join you in welcoming the arrival of this long-awaited agreement. As hostages and prisoners are released, and food starts to be distributed we are finally able witness a moment of silence from the constant explosion of bombs and loss of life in Gaza.
We continue to lament and mourn all those killed and the devastation in Gaza, yet we welcome this ceasefire as the chance to take a step towards a sustainable future. Now is the time to work towards ensuring that this ceasefire becomes permanent, supporting a Palestinian-led reconstruction of Gaza, and championing renewed possibilities for peace and justice for Palestinians and Israelis.
Canada has the tools to support this vision. We call on our government to act boldly and take decisive action towards upholding a permanent ceasefire and working for long term peace. Some significant tools that Canada can continue to use are:
- Diplomacy: Canada can use our diplomatic power to pressure all parties to uphold the ceasefire and for all civilians to be protected. We encourage continued support for peacebuilders, like MCC partners, who play a vital role in this current moment.
- Humanitarian aid and reconstruction: Now is the time for Canada to fully support increased humanitarian aid for the long term, including a Palestinian-led reconstruction of Gaza.
- Uphold our commitment to accountability and international law: Canada must continue to respect the decisions made by the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court regarding this conflict. We can ensure that our actions and policies abide by international law. We can take measures that hold Israel, and all armed actors, accountable for their actions.
- Work toward a long term and sustainable solution for peace in Palestine and Israel, including supporting an end to the illegal Israeli military occupation and illegal settlements, and supporting conditions that will allow for peace, justice, and human flourishing for all people.
Join us in asking the Canadian government to act for peace by sending the letter below to the Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and other leaders.
Additional Resources: FAQ : MCC and Palestine and Israel | A Cry for Home | A prayer for Palestine and Israel | Open letter to Minister Joly
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