Palestinian envoy says Canada ‘pivotal’ in Mideast peace, urges more action

Ottawa — The new Palestinian ambassador to Canada has praised the country's recognition of the State of Palestine as a "pivotal" moment for her people and upholding international law. Feda Abdelhady, the ambassador, says Canada must do more to end Israel's occupation and called for greater consistency in Canadian policy toward Palestine and Israel.

The Canadian government's recognition of Palestine, which took place nearly a year ago, followed the Israeli government's move to officially recognize the State of Palestine. Since then, a ceasefire deal in Gaza has led to a decrease in violence between Israel and Hamas militants, but the humanitarian situation remains dire, particularly for children.

Abdelhady expressed hope in Canada's stance, noting that the country has been a voice in connecting various forms of violence and oppression in the Middle East. She emphasized that Canada should impose consequences on Israel, such as suspending trade agreements with goods from occupied Palestinian territory and military exports used against Palestinians.