New Democrats call on Liberal government to bring Lebanese-Canadians to safety

NDP foreign affairs critic Heather McPherson (Edmonton Strathcona) made the following statement:

“Our thoughts are with the people of Lebanon today as civilians, especially children, face unimaginable danger in the most deadly escalation of violence between Israel and Hezbollah since 2006.

Canadians are worried sick for their loved ones in Lebanon, many of whom are trapped or fleeing their homes and seeing the cities they love destroyed. Reports today indicate over 50 children have been killed by Netanyahu’s bombing.

United Nations officials are clear that Israel’s indiscriminate attacks over the past week have violated international humanitarian law. New Democrats condemn these attacks that have killed civilians including women, children, and medics. We condemn Hezbollah’s use of rockets targeting Israeli civilians.

New Democrats call on the Liberal government to do everything possible to immediately evacuate Canadians from Lebanon. The Canadian government must also work to de-escalate the situation, protect Canadians in Lebanon, and call for peace. The people of Lebanon, who continue to face economic crisis and have endured so much, do not want a war.”