Ottawa – Zaytoun News
The National Council on Canada-Arab Relations (NCCAR) is deeply concerned by the ongoing war in Palestine and the escalating violence in Lebanon.
In a statement NCCAR said today, “We extend our solidarity to the affected civilians and express our condolences to the families of the victims.”
Added, “There are currently close to 45,000 Canadians in Lebanon, as confirmed by Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly. While the Canadian government has hinted at its limitations in organizing an evacuation, we believe that this is not an acceptable stance in the face of a growing crisis. Canada must take action now and be fully prepared to address this situation, ensuring that Canadians are not left in harm’s way.”
NCCAR is also grievously concerned about the recent indiscriminate attacks from a likely state actor using exploding communication devices in Lebanon and Syria. Since these types of attacks are not only a violation of international humanitarian law but also a violation of the United Nations Charter. While Israel has not officially claimed responsibility, it has been widely blamed for the attacks. The incident has since significantly escalated the tensions and furthered the conflict in the region.
NCCAR calls on the Canadian government to take the immediate actions:
Immediate Evacuation Plan for Canadians in Lebanon: The Canadian government must act swiftly to establish a clear and comprehensive evacuation plan to safely bring home Canadian citizens currently stranded in Lebanon. With nearly 45,000 Canadians in the region, the stakes are high, and inaction is not an option.
Visa Program for Lebanese Family Members: Many Canadians have immediate family members in Lebanon who are caught in the midst of this crisis. We call on the government to expedite a temporary visa program to reunite families, ensuring their safety in these uncertain times.
Humanitarian Assistance and Medical Supplies: The NCCAR urges the Canadian government to provide urgent humanitarian aid, including medical supplies and personnel, to support hospitals and clinics overwhelmed by the influx of wounded civilians in Lebanon and Palestine.
Diplomatic Pressure for De-escalation: The Canadian government must actively work with international partners to place increased pressure on all parties involved to cease the violence and return to the peace tables. Diplomacy must take precedence over military action in resolving this conflict.
End to the Illegal Occupation of Palestine and Protection of Civilians: We reiterate the need for a just and lasting solution to the conflict in Palestine, which includes an end to the illegal occupation. We also demand the immediate cessation of any targeting of civilians, which violates the Geneva Convention and basic principles of human rights and international law. The rights and sovereignty of the Palestinian people must be respected under international law.
The NCCAR remains committed to advocating for peace and justice in the region and stands to work with the Canadian government and international organizations to ensure that Canadian citizens and their families are protected during this crisis.
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