Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed optimism as Israel and Hamas reached an agreement on a U.S.-brokered peace plan for Gaza. The deal aims to release Israeli hostages and halt hostilities. Carney emphasized the importance of Hamas fulfilling its part of the agreement by releasing all hostages, including those deceased, taken during the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that 20 of the 48 hostages still in captivity are believed to be alive.
Carney highlighted the critical 48-hour period ahead during a press briefing on Parliament Hill, praising U.S. President Donald Trump for his efforts in facilitating the peace plan negotiations. The agreement, which includes a ceasefire among other elements, was a result of sustained pressure from Trump and Arab mediators on both sides after two years of conflict.
Carney credited Trump’s leadership for bringing the parties together and acknowledged the contributions of Jared Kushner, Steve Witkoff, and regional countries like Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey in the peace process. He hinted at a potential role for Canada in supporting the ongoing peace efforts.
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand emphasized the urgency of securing the hostages’ release as a priority to advance the peace plan. She mentioned Canada’s collaboration with the U.S. on a 20-point peace plan that includes provisions for immediate aid to Gaza once the agreement is fully accepted. Anand also highlighted Canada’s substantial commitment of $340 million for humanitarian assistance in Gaza.
Regarding Canada’s potential involvement in a transnational peacekeeping force for Gaza, Anand stated that discussions are ongoing. The Canadian Armed Forces’ current engagements abroad raise questions about resource availability for such a deployment. Officials from Global Affairs Canada informed the Senate committee that Canada’s participation in an armed mission for Gaza hinges on successful negotiations and broad agreement on the peace plan.
Carney and Canadian officials are considering potential contributions to stabilization efforts involving European and Arab partners. They are actively assessing how Canada can support the peace process moving forward.