Canada bans arms shipments to Israel

This decision follows a parliamentary vote, where lawmakers voted 204-117 in favor of a non-binding motion to halt weapons sales after a lengthy debate on Monday.

Speaking to The Toronto Star newspaper, Minister Joly confirmed the decision, stating, "It's a real thing." Initially proposed as a suspension on weapons sales, the motion was amended to impose an outright ban.

Included in the motion was a clause expressing support for the eventual establishment of the State of Palestine, aligning Canada's stance with its international partners.

Canada had previously implemented a temporary suspension on export permits for military goods and technology. However, there had been some ambiguity as Global Affairs Canada continued to receive applications for arms exports to Israel, subject to case-by-case review.

Minister Joly emphasized that following the parliamentary vote, the government decided to uphold the pledge for a weapons ban.

Defense Minister Bill Blair clarified that Minister Joly would determine the enforcement of the ban, acknowledging existing contracts while indicating a forward-looking approach. "There are a number of existing contracts that are already in place, but this was a going-forward basis," Blair said. "There has been a lot of concern expressed with respect to ... lethal military sales to Israel during the conflict." (ILKHA)