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OTTAWA – Newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has called on Israel to resume supplying electricity and essential aid to Gaza, after Israel announced on Sunday that it had ceased power supply to the war-torn enclave.
Carney appealed on Wednesday in a statement posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing that food, electricity, and medical supplies should never be used as political tools.
“It has been more than two days that the supply of electricity to Gaza has been shut off,” Carney wrote. “The electricity supply must resume—essentials including food, electricity, and medical supplies should never be used as political tools.”
Call for International Action and Ceasefire
The Canadian leader stressed that Canada must work with its allies to uphold international law, ensure sustainable peace in the Middle East, and guarantee humanitarian aid access for Palestinian families.
He also urged both Israel and Hamas to continue working toward a ceasefire agreement and the return of hostages still held by the militant group since the October 7 attack.
“As this work continues, both parties must work towards the return of all hostages and the completion of the ceasefire agreement,” he added.
Israel’s Decision to Cut Electricity to Gaza
Israel’s decision to halt electricity supply to Gaza was announced by Energy Minister Eli Cohen on Sunday. Cohen justified the move as part of broader efforts to pressure Hamas and secure the release of Israeli hostages.
“We will activate every tool we have to ensure our hostages return home and Hamas is not in Gaza after the war,” Cohen stated.
The shutdown of electricity supply has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where residents have struggled with food shortages, limited access to medical aid, and worsening living conditions amid ongoing hostilities.
Carney’s Position on Israel Sparks Criticism
Carney, who was elected as leader of Canada’s Liberal Party on Sunday following Justin Trudeau’s resignation in January, has faced scrutiny from Canada’s Jewish community over his stance on Israel. Critics have expressed concerns about his policies on antisemitism in the diaspora and his approach to Middle Eastern affairs.
His recent statement on Gaza has drawn mixed reactions, with some praising his humanitarian stance while others argue that it fails to acknowledge Israel’s security concerns and the ongoing threat posed by Hamas.
Upcoming Political Challenges
Carney took office immediately following his Liberal Party victory but now faces a crucial national election, set to take place no later than October, where he will challenge Pierre Poilievre, the leader of Canada’s Conservative Party.
As the newly appointed leader, Carney’s foreign policy positions, including his stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict, are likely to be a key issue in the upcoming elections. His appeal for humanitarian aid to Gaza signals a potential shift in Canada’s Middle East policy under his leadership.
Meanwhile, the situation in Gaza remains critical as international pressure mounts on Israel to reconsider its stance on aid and power supply to the Strip, while negotiations continue over a possible ceasefire and hostage release deal.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members