Canada’s remarks at UN Human Rights Council Special Session to address the “Grave human rights situation in Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem”

Geneva, May 27, 2021

Check against delivery. This speech has been translated in accordance with the Government of Canada’s official languages policy and edited for posting and distribution in accordance with its communications policy.

“Canada welcomes the ceasefire in Israel and Gaza and urges further de-escalation of tensions. A sustainable long-term solution must be found for both the Palestinian and Israeli peoples. Canada will continue to work with Israel, the Palestinian Authority and the international community to break the cycle of violence, loss of life and suffering.

“Canada firmly believes in the right of Palestinians and Israelis to live with dignity, without fear, and with their human rights respected. We support the principle of “two states for two peoples”, with both Israelis and Palestinians living within secure borders that are mutually respected and recognized.

“The continued expansion of settlements, demolitions and evictions constitute a serious obstacle to achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace. Canada calls on Israel to stop settlement activities, including those in East Jerusalem and the West Bank. These activities are a violation of international law and must cease. Canada reiterates that it does not recognize permanent Israeli control over territories occupied in 1967.

“The indiscriminate barrage of rockets fired by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad into Israel was completely unacceptable. Canada supports Israel's right to live in peace with its neighbours within secure boundaries, and its right to assure its own security. This right must be exercised in a way that is proportionate, and fully respects human rights and international law.

“Canada remains firmly committed to working with the international community to achieve lasting peace in the region.”