Canada has announced the imposition of new sanctions under the Special Economic Measures Act, targeting individuals involved in extremist settler violence in the West Bank. This marks the first instance of Canada listing extremist Israeli settlers for sanctions.
The decision, announced by Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, responds to the escalating violence and its impact on Palestinian civilians and their property. Canada remains concerned about the breach of international peace and security caused by these actions and is considering additional measures.
Reports indicate that since October 7, 2023, there have been at least 800 attacks by extremist settlers against Palestinians, resulting in assaults, fatalities, property damage, and the destruction of farms. These incidents have led to the displacement of Palestinian communities and heightened regional insecurity.
The sanctions announced today include prohibitions on dealings with the listed individuals and render them inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. The individuals named are:
- David Chai Chasdai
- Yinon Levi
- Zvi Bar Yosef
- Moshe Sharvit
Canada continues to oppose the expansion of illegal settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem and advocates for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the Middle East.
Quotes
“The rise in violence by extremist Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank is deeply troubling and poses significant risks to peace and security in the region. While I was in the region recently, I heard directly from families that have been forced to leave their homes and farming lands as a direct result of violence and threats by extremist settlers. With these measures, we are sending a clear message that acts of extremist settler violence are unacceptable and that perpetrators of such violence will face consequences,” stated Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Quick Facts
- Canada does not recognize permanent Israeli control over the territories occupied in 1967.
- The Fourth Geneva Convention of 1949 applies to the occupied territories and outlines Israel’s obligations as an occupying power, particularly regarding the humane treatment of inhabitants.
- UN Security Council resolutions 446 (1979) and 465 (1980) state that Israeli settlements in the occupied territories violate the Fourth Geneva Convention and hinder the achievement of a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace.
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