NDP statement on the situation in the Middle East

NDP Foreign Affairs Critic Paul Dewar issued the following statement today on the situation in the Middle East:

“While we were heartened last night to learn of a new 72-hour ceasefire, it was profoundly disappointing that this agreement was quickly violated by Hamas. Canada must now join the international community in calling for an immediate return to the ceasefire.

“Sadly, this week saw a number of deeply troubling events and too many civilian lives lost, especially in Gaza. The shelling by the IDF of a United Nations shelter in Gaza housing innocent civilians fleeing the violence was horrifying and completely unacceptable. Canada must urge Israel to take further measures to protect civilians and respect international humanitarian law.

“We urge the Canadian government to take strong action to help address the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Now more than ever it is critical for our government to work diplomatically, with our international allies and through the United Nations, to support the resumption of a durable ceasefire and a negotiated settlement to this conflict.

“Too many lives have been lost. We must now do everything we can to foster peace.

“New Democrats remain committed to a two-state solution respectful of international law, where Israelis and Palestinians can live in peace in viable, independent and secure states with negotiated and agreed-upon borders.”