Nearly 200 former Canadian diplomats have called on Prime Minister Mark Carney to impose strong sanctions on Israel over the worsening humanitarian situation in the occupied Palestinian territories and Lebanon.
In a strongly worded letter, 190 retired diplomats warned that Israel would continue violating international law unless the international community takes meaningful action. Their message adds fresh pressure on Ottawa to adopt a tougher stance on the conflict.
The former diplomats, many of whom served as ambassadors and senior foreign policy officials, said Canada should not remain silent while conditions continue to deteriorate.
They wrote, “without robust international sanctions the Israeli government will persist in disregarding international law and human rights and will press forward with its plans to expand settlements”.
The signatories argued that settlement expansion in the occupied Palestinian territories undermines any realistic hope for a lasting peace. They also said Canada must align its foreign policy with its longstanding commitment to international law and human rights.
At the same time, the letter addressed the growing crisis in Lebanon.
The diplomats acknowledged Israel’s security concerns involving Hezbollah. However, they said the scale of destruction and civilian casualties cannot be ignored.
“While Canada recognises Israel’s legitimate security concerns regarding Hezbollah, the razing of entire towns and the high civilian death toll is a serious violation of international law.”
This statement reflects increasing concern over the humanitarian impact of military operations in Lebanon.
The letter is particularly significant because it comes from former officials who spent decades representing Canada around the world. Their collective intervention suggests growing unease within Canada’s diplomatic community.
So far, Prime Minister Mark Carney has not publicly responded to the appeal.
Nevertheless, the letter is likely to intensify debate over Canada’s Middle East policy.
Supporters of sanctions argue that stronger measures are necessary to hold Israel accountable and defend international law. Others maintain that diplomacy remains the best way to encourage de-escalation.
For now, the message from Canada’s former diplomats is clear: Ottawa should take firmer action and use sanctions to press for accountability and respect for human rights.
