Dear Members of Parliament,
On behalf of the Canadian Muslim Public Affairs Council (CMPAC), we address the critical issue of Canada’s response to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) Advisory Opinion on Israel’s policies in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. The ICJ’s findings, delivered on July 19, 2024, leave no room for ambiguity: Israel’s occupation is unlawful under international law, constituting severe violations of human rights and humanitarian law. For a detailed analysis of the ICJ’s opinion and its implications, please refer to CMPAC’s comprehensive summary available here.
The ICJ’s Advisory Opinion categorically declares that Israel’s occupation, including its activities in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza, is a breach of international law and amounts to apartheid. The Court condemns Israel’s settlement expansion, barrier construction, and resource exploitation as violations of the Fourth Geneva Convention, highlighting the severe infringement on Palestinian self-determination and systemic human rights abuses. This landmark opinion provides a crucial legal and moral foundation for immediate international action; they represent a profound moral imperative. The Court’s condemnation of Israel’s actions as clear manifestations of apartheid underscores the urgency for global action to address these gross human rights abuses and restore justice for the Palestinian people.
Since October 7th, Canada’s response to the violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territories has been both inadequate and disappointing. Despite the ICJ’s compelling evidence against Israel’s actions, Canada has yet to take meaningful action. The ICJ’s Advisory Opinion presents a critical opportunity for Canada to assert a principled stance and uphold justice and international law. As a nation dedicated to human rights and international standards, Canada must not remain passive. The ICJ’s findings offer a clear legal foundation for Canada to lead in promoting justice and accountability on the global stage.
In light of these findings, we ask you and all members of parliament to publicly call upon the Government of Canada to endorse the ICJ’s Advisory Opinion and demand a significant change in Canada’s foreign policy towards Israel and Palestine. We urge you to endorse CMPAC’s recommendations (below) and advocate for their implementation.
Therefore, on behalf of CMPAC, we urgently call on the Government of Canada to:
- Officially Declare Non-Recognition of Israel’s Illegal Occupation: Issue a clear and unambiguous statement from the Prime Minister’s Office and the Department of Global Affairs, publicly declaring Canada’s non-recognition of Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories, including the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza.
- Implement Immediate Diplomatic Measures: Take concrete steps to downgrade diplomatic relations with Israel, recall Canadian ambassadors for consultation, and suspend all forms of military cooperation and trade agreements until Israel complies with international law. A full two-ways arms embargo must also be immediately enacted.
- Impose Targeted Economic Sanctions: Apply economic sanctions on Israeli companies and individuals involved in illegal settlement activities, including freezing assets and prohibiting trade that directly supports the occupation.
- Support International Accountability: Actively support international efforts, including those at the United Nations and the International Criminal Court, to investigate and hold accountable individuals and entities responsible for violations of international law in the occupied territories.
- Reevaluate the use of the IHRA Definition: Revise and clarify the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism to ensure it does not suppress legitimate criticism of Israel’s actions as identified by the ICJ.
- Recognize and Support Palestinian Self-Determination: Formally recognize the State of Palestine and support its full inclusion and participation in international organizations and forums.
- Protect Freedom of Assembly: Guarantee the rights of pro-Palestinian student movements and activists across Canada to peacefully advocate for divestment from entities involved in the illegal occupation without fear of reprisal or interference.
This moment demands moral clarity and decisive action from Canada. The ICJ’s Advisory Opinion is a stark reminder of our collective responsibility to uphold justice and human rights in the face of injustice. Delaying action is tantamount to complicity. We urge you to demonstrate Canada’s leadership in the international community by swiftly endorsing the ICJ Advisory Opinion and implementing CMPAC’s recommendations. Canadians expect and deserve a principled stance that aligns with our values and commitments to human rights and international law.
Finally, we look forward to your prompt public announcement on this issue reflecting an unwavering commitment to justice and human rights.
Sincerely,
The Canadian Muslim Public Affairs Council (CMPAC)
https://www.canadianmuslimpac.ca
