In a significant shift reflective of waning relations, Israel has announced that it will not replace its departing defence attaché at the Canadian embassy. Colonel Ilan Or, who is set to return to Israel by the end of July, will see his responsibilities transferred to a cross-accredited officer stationed at the Israeli embassy in Washington, D.C. This move underscores the growing friction between Ottawa and Tel Aviv, particularly in the wake of Canada’s recent foreign policy shifts concerning Israel and the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
A Historic Withdrawal
The decision to withdraw the defence attaché marks the first time in over a decade that Israel has left this position vacant in Ottawa. Ambassador Iddo Moed confirmed that the last such absence occurred in 2012. Defence attachés play a key role in military diplomacy, serving as senior military representatives and advisers to ambassadors on defence matters.
Philippe Lagassé, an associate professor at Carleton University, commented on the implications of this withdrawal, stating that the presence of a defence attaché often signals a desire for enhanced military collaboration. “Removing this position sends a clear message that the relationship is deteriorating,” he noted, emphasising the significance of military-to-military ties in contemporary diplomacy.
Background of Relations
The relationship between Canada and Israel, formalised under the Canada-Israel Strategic Partnership in 2014 during Stephen Harper’s premiership, has now reached a low point. Under this agreement, the two nations committed to maintaining military attaché offices, a commitment that is now in jeopardy.
Ambassador Moed attributed the withdrawal to a strategic reallocation of resources, asserting that Israel aims to “expand collaboration with high-interest partners.” He maintains that while a defence attaché remains vital, current priorities necessitate a focus elsewhere. Israel’s Ministry of Defence has attempted to downplay the significance of the move, insisting it does not signify a withdrawal from its commitment to Canada.
Recent Policy Changes and Their Impact
The backdrop to these developments is a series of policy changes by the Canadian government, particularly in response to Israel’s military actions in Gaza. In January 2024, Ottawa halted the approval of new military export permits to Israel, citing concerns about humanitarian impacts amid the ongoing conflict. This policy shift aligns with a broader trend of Canada increasingly siding with European allies regarding Israel and the Palestinian territories.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has escalated dramatically, following a brutal conflict that erupted in October 2023. Israel’s military response to a Hamas attack resulted in widespread devastation, leading to significant loss of life and infrastructure within Gaza. The United Nations has raised alarms about potential genocide, findings that Israel has categorically rejected.
Prime Minister Mark Carney’s administration has further complicated matters by officially recognising a Palestinian state, a decision made in concert with other Western nations. Carney justified this move as a means to facilitate a “two-state solution” and to address the humanitarian ramifications of Israeli policies in the region.
Economic Considerations and Future Prospects
Despite the ongoing tensions, the potential for economic collaboration remains. Ambassador Moed expressed that Israel’s defence firms could play a crucial role in Canada’s emerging defence industry strategy. However, he voiced concerns about the feasibility of such collaborations given the absence of a resident defence attaché.
In May 2025, Canada still exported military goods to Israel, valued at approximately $14.7 million, despite the restrictions imposed earlier. This underscores the complex and often contradictory nature of bilateral relations, where economic ties persist even as political relations deteriorate.
Why it Matters
The withdrawal of Israel’s defence attaché from Canada is a potent symbol of the changing geopolitical landscape. As Ottawa recalibrates its foreign policy in response to humanitarian concerns, this move not only highlights the fraying relationship between the two nations but also sets the stage for potential shifts in alliances and military collaborations in the future. As both countries navigate these turbulent waters, the implications for defence cooperation and broader Middle Eastern diplomacy remain significant, with the potential to reshape their longstanding partnership in unforeseen ways.
