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Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand has firmly addressed the alleged mistreatment of Canadian nationals involved in a recent flotilla attempting to deliver aid to Gaza, asserting that such actions contravene international law. In a conversation with her Israeli counterpart, Anand called for an independent investigation into the incident, which has sparked significant diplomatic tensions between Canada and Israel.
Diplomatic Tensions Rise
On Monday, Anand took to social media to detail her discussions with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar regarding the treatment of twelve Canadians who were among the 420 individuals intercepted by Israel on May 18 and 19. These activists aimed to deliver a symbolic amount of aid to a region under strict Israeli blockade. Highlighting the breach of the Vienna Convention, Anand stated, “Denying Canadian citizens access to consular services while they were detained violates the Vienna Convention and must never happen again.” She added that Canada has presented evidence of this mistreatment to Israeli authorities and expects accountability for those involved.
The flotilla was a peaceful initiative that aimed to highlight the humanitarian crisis in Gaza amidst a backdrop of escalating military actions. However, upon their interception, the activists reported experiencing severe mistreatment, including allegations of torture. Three of these activists returned to Vancouver on Sunday, sharing harrowing accounts of their experiences during detention. Their claims have intensified calls for scrutiny into Israel’s handling of international activists attempting to provide aid.
Responses from Canadian Leadership
Prime Minister Mark Carney also engaged with Israeli President Isaac Herzog on the same day, reiterating the unacceptability of the treatment faced by civilians aboard the flotilla. A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office declared that Carney had called for an independent investigation into the incident, condemning the actions of Israeli Public
