Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has expressed strong concerns over the treatment of activists, including Canadian citizens, who were detained by Israel while attempting to bring aid to Gaza. Carney described their treatment as ‘appalling’ and called for an independent investigation into the matter. This statement was made during a conversation with Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

Strained Diplomatic Relations

The situation has further strained diplomatic relations between Canada and Israel, with Carney also criticizing illegal Israeli settlement expansion and violence in the West Bank. The Israeli embassy in Ottawa has not commented on the issue, but Israel’s ambassador to Canada recently noted that bilateral relations are at an all-time low.

Activists who were detained reported abuse, with several requiring hospitalization and at least 15 alleging sexual assaults, including rape. However, Israel’s prison service has denied these allegations. Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand has also been involved, stating that Canada will provide evidence of mistreatment to Israel and emphasizing that denying consular access to Canadian citizens violates the Vienna Convention.

Responses from Israeli Officials

In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar claimed that the activists were inspired by Hamas and highlighted a rise in antisemitic incidents in Canada, urging the Canadian government to address these issues. The diplomatic exchange underscores the complex and tense nature of international relations surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.