Canada Calls for Significant Humanitarian Ceasefire in Gaza

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau urged for a "significant humanitarian ceasefire" in the conflict in Gaza during a press talk today, Wednesday, to allow for the release of all hostages. He added, "This ceasefire must allow for real and substantial aid, sufficient to alleviate this heinous humanitarian crisis for the people and civilians in Gaza." Trudeau noted a "terrifying" rise in antisemitism worldwide, including in Canada, citing incidents where Molotov cocktails were thrown at Jewish temples. He also pointed to the increasing phenomenon of Islamophobia. He remarked, "This is not who we are as Canadians. This is something unacceptable in Canada... Canadians are fearful in our streets now." He continued, "We must be there to understand the fear and pain felt by millions of Canadians." Trudeau also mentioned that there will be a need for "a significant effort" to work towards a two-state solution that would lead to a viable Palestinian state alongside a secure and viable Israel. Canada had previously called for a series of short ceasefires to allow aid to enter the region but has shied away from calling for a long-term ceasefire.