Canada Joins European Condemnation of Israeli Settlement Expansion

Canada has joined European countries in condemning Israeli settlement expansion and settler violence. The condemnation comes as part of a joint statement signed by Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Iceland, Ireland, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, the U.K., and other Western countries.

The statement describes Israeli actions as 'tantamount to the annexation of Palestinian land and forcible displacement of the Palestinian population.' It also emphasizes the need for a two-state solution, which would create a Palestinian country existing in peace alongside Israel.

Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand announced that Ottawa will introduce restrictions on trade in goods with settlements in the West Bank 'in the coming months.' This move is part of Canada's long-standing commitment to a two-state solution and its recognition of Palestinian statehood last year.

The joint statement was endorsed by 12 countries, including Belgium, the Netherlands, and Norway. However, not all parties agree with this decision. The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs warned that the ban will hurt Canada's economy, while Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East called for broader action to dismantle the settlement system.