Canada Condemns Israel Over Gaza Flotilla Detentions as Diplomatic Tensions Escalate

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney sharply criticized Israel on Monday over the treatment of activists detained aboard a Gaza-bound aid flotilla, calling the handling of civilians “appalling” and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza “catastrophic.” The remarks mark another sign of worsening Canada-Israel relations amid growing international scrutiny of the war in Gaza.

According to a statement from Carney’s office, the Canadian leader raised concerns directly with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and demanded an independent investigation into the detention of flotilla activists, including Canadian citizens. Carney stressed that the treatment of civilians on the aid vessel was unacceptable and reiterated Canada’s opposition to Israeli settlement expansion and settler violence in the occupied West Bank.

The controversy erupted after activists released from Israeli detention alleged they were subjected to abuse while in custody. Organizers claimed several individuals required hospitalization and at least 15 detainees reported sexual assault, including rape. Israel’s prison service rejected the allegations.

The dispute has further strained diplomatic ties between Ottawa and Tel Aviv. Israel’s ambassador to Canada recently described bilateral relations as the worst they have ever been. The Israeli embassy in Ottawa did not immediately respond to the latest criticism from the Canadian government.

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand also addressed the issue, saying she spoke with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and informed him that Canada would provide evidence regarding the alleged mistreatment of Canadian citizens. Anand added that denying detainees access to Canadian consular services violated the Vienna Convention and should never happen again.

In response, Saar accused the flotilla activists of being influenced by Hamas and raised concerns over increasing antisemitic incidents in Canada, urging stronger action from the Canadian government against hate-related attacks and incitement.