The Canadian Muslim Public Affairs Council (CMPAC) recognizes the ceasefire as a critical moment to confront the genocide and war crimes committed in Gaza. This fragile moment must become the turning point for real accountability, justice, and long-term solutions to the root causes of violence – Israel’s illegal occupation of Palestinian land and the systemic oppression of its people. Canada’s complicity, alongside the international community, in allowing these atrocities to persist must now be replaced with decisive, transformative action. On behalf of the Canadian Muslim community, CMPAC reiterates the following:
- Ceasefire and Occupation: The ceasefire must be upheld through robust international oversight to prevent further Israeli aggression, as true peace can only be achieved by dismantling the root cause of the violence: the illegal occupation. Canada and the international community must pressure Israel to comply with international law, end its occupation, and respect Palestinian sovereignty.
- Accountability: Canada has a legal obligation under the Genocide Convention to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the genocide in Gaza and those complicit in it. The government must support ICC arrest warrants for Israeli officials accused of crimes against humanity and war crimes. All states, including Canada, must enforce ICJ measures to prevent and halt genocide. Independent investigations are essential to hold accountable individuals, governments, and organizations behind the systematic targeting of civilians and infrastructure in Gaza.
- Prevent Escalation: The ceasefire must not lead to another cycle of violence. The international community must ensure the genocide does not spread to other parts of Palestine, including the West Bank and Jerusalem, where tensions persist. CMPAC urges Canada to impose an arms embargo on Israel and demand an end to the systemic persecution of Palestinians.
- Palestinian Self-Determination: The apartheid system in Palestine must be dismantled, illegal settlements removed, and Palestinian self-determination upheld. Canada must fulfill its promise to recognize Palestine as an independent state and take the long-overdue step of legitimizing Palestinian sovereignty on the world stage.
- Civil Liberties: Since October 7, civil liberties in Canada have been compromised, with increased discrimination and suppression of Palestinian solidarity. Free speech particularly in universities and public spaces, must be safeguarded to preserve Canadian democratic values.
This ceasefire must not signify the conclusion of global attention on Gaza but rather the beginning of a concerted effort to pursue justice and accountability. Canada and the international community must act decisively to uphold international law, dismantle systemic oppression, and protect Palestinian lives and rights. The future of Palestine – and Canada’s legacy in shaping a just resolution – depends on the choices made at this critical juncture.
Picture Source: Al Jazeera