Canada( The COW News Digital) Canada has hinted at the possibility of imposing sanctions on Israel following a deadly strike in Doha that targeted Hamas leaders. The announcement marks a major shift in Canada’s Middle East policy and underscores Ottawa’s growing criticism of Israel’s military actions.
Speaking to reporters during a meeting of the ruling Liberal Party, Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand called the Israeli strike in Qatar “completely unacceptable,” emphasizing that Qatar plays a “vital role” in regional peace efforts. “We are reassessing our relationship with Israel and will continue to evaluate our next steps,” Anand stated.
When asked if Canada might follow the European Union’s lead in sanctioning Israel, Anand said Ottawa is “continuously reviewing its options.” Her remarks come shortly after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced new EU measures to restrict cooperation with Israel in response to its recent military operations.
Canada’s tougher stance on Israel follows Prime Minister Mark Carney’s decision in July to formally recognize a Palestinian state — a move that provoked a sharp backlash from Tel Aviv. Carney has been vocal in his criticism of Israeli actions, calling Tuesday’s airstrike “unbearable and alarming violence” that risks inflaming tensions across the region. He previously condemned Israel’s reported plans to seize control of Gaza City, calling such an approach “wrong and destabilizing.”
This represents a significant departure from Canada’s traditional posture under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who generally supported Israel but occasionally criticized its military actions. Analysts say Carney’s approach signals a reorientation of Canadian foreign policy toward a more balanced position in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The attack in Doha has drawn widespread international condemnation, with many countries urging de-escalation and renewed peace talks. Qatar, which has served as a mediator between Israel and Hamas in previous conflicts, warned that such strikes undermine diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.
Ottawa’s potential move toward sanctions would put additional diplomatic pressure on Israel as it faces growing international isolation. If enacted, the measures could include restrictions on military exports, financial dealings, or technology cooperation.
Observers say Canada’s next steps will be closely watched, as they could influence other Western nations to adopt similar positions, further shaping the global response to Israel’s actions in the Middle East.
