Canada PM Mark Carney Denounces Israel's Gaza Flotilla Treatment as 'Abominable'
Canada's Response to Israel's Actions Against Gaza Flotilla Activists
Prime Minister Mark Carney's Condemnation
OTTAWA, May 20 (Reuters) - Israel's treatment of detained Gaza flotilla activists is "abominable," Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Wednesday, using unusually harsh language to condemn a close ally.
Diplomatic Measures and Protests
Summoning the Israeli Ambassador
Ottawa earlier said it would summon the Israeli ambassador to protest after National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir shared a video in which he taunted the activists, who were forced to kneel on the ground in rows with their hands tied behind their backs.
Official Statement and Sanctions
"The abominable treatment of civilians aboard the flotilla, including that which is documented in footage shared by Itamar Ben-Gvir, is unacceptable," Carney said in a social media post.
"Canada has already imposed strict sanctions on Mr. Ben-Gvir, including asset freezes and a travel ban, in response to his repeated incitement of violence."
Background of the Incident
Details of the Flotilla Interception
The activists were aboard a flotilla that was intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters on Tuesday and later taken to an Israeli port.
Canada's Evolving Stance on Israel
Policy Shifts Under Mark Carney
Canada has gradually hardened its line on Israel under Carney, who replaced Justin Trudeau as leader of the Liberal Party and Prime Minister in March 2025.
Recognition of Palestinian Statehood
Carney announced last September that Canada would recognize Palestinian statehood, angering Israel.
Reporting Credits
(Reporting by David Ljunggren; Editing by Franklin Paul and Cynthia Osterman)
