Canada denounces Israel’s authorization of settlements in West Bank
In an official statement released online, Canadian authorities denounced the approval of 19 new settlements, stressing that such actions run counter to international legal standards and long-standing diplomatic objectives. The statement declared: “Canada strongly condemns Israel’s decision to approve 19 new settlements in the West Bank.” It went on to caution: “This continued settlement expansion, illegal under international law, puts at risk the 20-point Peace Plan and undermines prospects for a two-state solution.”
The remarks referenced a recently proposed 20-point peace initiative for Gaza advanced by the current US administration in late September, an effort that ultimately resulted in an agreement the following month between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas involving a ceasefire and a hostage-prisoner exchange.
Over the weekend, Israel’s security cabinet formally authorized the creation of the new settlements. Based on Israeli data, this brings the number of settlement approvals in recent years to 69, all of which are widely regarded as illegal under international law.
Palestinian data indicate that since October 2023, violence linked to Israeli forces and settlers in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, has resulted in at least 1,102 Palestinian deaths, nearly 11,000 injuries, and the detention of approximately 21,000 people.
The issue of settlements has also been addressed at the international legal level. In a significant advisory opinion issued last July, the world’s highest court ruled that Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories is unlawful and called for the dismantling and evacuation of all settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Canadian Muslim organizations welcomed Ottawa’s strong language but argued that verbal condemnation alone is insufficient. One group stated: “We appreciate the clear condemnation of Israel’s actions in expanding illegal settlements.” It added: “However, Canada must go further in taking action -- including banning all products made in these illegal settlements.”
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