Israeli Ambassador Asserts Nation’s Capability to Protect Itself Following Canada’s Decision to Halt Future Arms Sales

Israel’s ambassador to Canada is not commenting on whether the recent vote in the House of Commons to cease future arms exports to Israel will have an impact on the conflict with Hamas.

Iddo Moed expressed that the vote was concerning for many Israelis, especially during a time when they are still reeling from the actions of the group Canada has labeled as a terrorist organization.

The majority of Liberal MPs sided with the NDP in supporting a motion on March 18 urging Canada to halt military exports to Israel due to concerns about the high number of Palestinian casualties in the Gaza Strip conflict.

Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly also verified reports that Canada had stopped approving permits in early January due to human rights considerations.

Israel’s foreign minister has stated that the vote will weaken Israel’s ability to defend itself.

However, Mr. Moed declined to speculate on whether the motion would actually hinder Israel’s military operations.

“I don’t believe that is a subject I wish to address at this time,” Mr. Moed stated on March 20.

“Regardless, we are a strong nation, with a powerful military, and I am confident that we will be able to continue to protect ourselves,” he added.

Companies can still request permits for exporting military equipment, but Ottawa will not be making any decisions in the meantime, according to Ms. Joly’s office.

The motion on March 18 was focused on arms, but officials clarify that it applies to all military goods and technology subject to Canadian permit regulations, such as radars or cameras.

Prior to the passage of the motion on March 18, Ms. Joly informed the Commons that Canada had not approved any military export permits for shipments to Israel since January 8.

This was due to “our inability to verify that human rights are being respected and, of course, that our export regulations would be adhered to,” she explained.

When asked about this concern, Mr. Moed mentioned that he cannot speak for how Canadian authorities evaluate such situations, but he asserted that Israel upholds human rights.

“I do not see a significant change on the ground with regards to the January policy adjustment,” Mr. Moed pointed out.

“From our perspective, we have consistently upheld human rights, ensuring compliance with all international obligations at all times,” he stated.

This includes efforts to provide aid to Gaza and protect Palestinian civilians as much as possible, according to Mr. Moed.

Both Ottawa and Washington have criticized Israel for not doing enough to minimize casualties and ensure adequate aid reaches Palestinian civilians.

The motion on March 18 has caused divisions within the Liberal caucus, with three MPs voting against it, including one who is reevaluating his future within the party.