Canada demands accountability for Israeli officials after "horrific abuse" of Canadian activists in the Gaza flotilla

Ottawa —
Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand escalated Ottawa's stance towards Israel, calling for accountability for those responsible for the "horrific abuse" suffered by Canadian activists after Israeli forces intercepted a flotilla heading to Gaza.

Anand said that officials in her ministry informed her of details she described as "horrific" regarding the treatment of Canadians detained in Israel, affirming that Canada strongly condemns the severe mistreatment they endured.

Twelve Canadian citizens were among the participants in the "Freedom Flotilla," which attempted to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and break the naval blockade imposed on it.

Anand explained that the Canadians who were detained in Israel arrived in Turkey after their deportation, and that Canadian consular officials are working to ensure they receive urgent medical care if needed, in preparation for their return to Canada as soon as possible.

The Canadian escalation came after Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir published a video clip showing him reprimanding activists detained in an Israeli facility, prompting Anand to instruct Canadian officials to summon the Israeli ambassador to Ottawa.

Anand's tone is considered one of the strongest Canadian positions towards Israel on this issue, as she did not stop at condemnation but demanded accountability for those responsible for the alleged violations against Canadian citizens.

Israel says the interception of the flotilla was to prevent a breach of the naval blockade on Gaza, while its organizers assert that it was carrying humanitarian aid as part of a peaceful civilian action.

The incident increases tensions in relations between Ottawa and Tel Aviv, at a time when international criticism is escalating over Israel's handling of the war in Gaza, the humanitarian aid issue, and the treatment of foreign activists.