Update on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict

December 18th, 2023

Dear neighbours,

I want to reassure everyone who has reached out to my office regarding Israel and Gaza that your concerns and voices have been heard. Our government is actively engaged in efforts to continue supporting all victims of violence, particularly Canadians who are directly impacted. 

At the UN General Assembly on December 12th, Canada voted for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the protection of all civilians in Gaza. The situation remains extremely dire in Gaza, which presents a greater need for humanitarian aid to enter the area and safe passage out for Canadians, and all foreign nationals.  

I continue to be a strong advocate for a ceasefire, and cessation of all hostilities. Far too many innocent Israeli and Palestinian lives have been lost. Children continue to suffer the worst consequences, continued violence will achieve nothing but more anguish. 

Hamas must surrender immediately and release all the innocent people they have been holding hostage for over two months. Hamas does not represent the aspirations of the Palestinian people. 

I recognize that there are Jewish members of our community who feel disappointed and let down by Canada’s vote at the UN. Anti-Semitism is a very real threat to safety and security - it is essential that every Canadian feels safe and secure where they live and work.  

There is no place for racism in Canada - this includes Islamophobia, anti-Semitism, and anti-Arab racism. I am a staunch supporter of our collective rights of freedom of expression and peaceful protest - but we have obligations in our diverse society to ensure that people don’t feel unsafe or targeted as a result of our advocacy or protests. We must never allow our differences to descend into hatred of one another. We are so much stronger as a diverse society – stronger because of our differences, not despite them. 

I support measures to ensure faster family reunification for Canadians with spouses and common-law partners, children, grandchildren, parents, grandparents, and siblings currently in Gaza. This includes pathways and special resources for these individuals to receive an expedited or temporary visa for facilitated entry to Canada. 

I remain steadfast in my calls for a permanent ceasefire, aligned with the United Nations' appeals for urgent action as well as Canada’s joint statement with Australia and New Zealand. Canada remains committed to the goal of lasting peace in the Middle East, including the creation of a Palestinian state living side by side with Israel in peace and security. 

Please reach out to me if you have any questions as the situation continues to evolve. 

Peace and strength to you, your family, and our community, 

Adam van Koeverden