The Canadian Muslim Public Affairs Council calls on Minister of Foreign Affairs Anand to issue a firm and unequivocal response to the mistreatment and denial of entry of Canadian MPs and humanitarian delegates attempting to enter the occupied West Bank. The comments made by Global Affairs Canada fall short of what is required and are wholly inadequate given the gravity of the incident. The reported treatment of the delegation, including MP Iqra Khalid, involving both verbal and physical intimidation raises serious concerns of discriminatory and gendered harassment.
Members of parliament, having taken the oath of office, are expected, whether on duty or not, to uphold the dignity of their office. The government has a corresponding responsibility to extend that same respect and protection, ensuring their safety, security and ability to carry out their duties while abroad.
Global Affairs Canada, in their media comments, stated that “Israel controls access to the West Bank and determines its own entry requirements”. The delegation’s visit followed Canada’s official recognition of Palestinian statehood and was organized in advance through the appropriate channels, with electronic travel authorizations granted to members of the delegation. Both Canadian and Israeli governments were aware of this scheduled trip, and Canada had a clear responsibility to ensure the delegation’s safe passage, access and protections.
CMPAC views this denial of entry as an unjustified and unlawful restriction on parliamentarians carrying out their duties. Global Affairs Canada and Minister of Foreign Affairs Anand should formally protest the denial of legitimate access to a Canadian delegation engaged in humanitarian efforts in the occupied West Bank. In light of these events and the aforementioned concerns, Minister Anand must escalate this matter through appropriate diplomatic channels, including summoning the Israeli ambassador for explanation, conducting a proper investigation and seeking a formal apology from Israeli authorities.
