Canada Halts Arms Exports to Israel Amid Crisis

Canada has announced its decision to halt all military equipment exports to Israel following a non-binding vote in the House of Commons. Israel's Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, criticized the move, arguing that it undermines Israel's right to self-defense. The New Democratic Party introduced the parliamentary motion due to their concerns over the protection of civilians in Gaza. Canada had previously scaled back its weapon exports to Israel to non-lethal equipment after a Hamas attack on October 7. Israeli Senator Bernie Sanders praised Canada's decision, citing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and urging the US to follow suit. The Netherlands, Japan, Spain, and Belgium have also suspended arms sales to Israel. Many other nations have announced they will no longer purchase Israeli weapons. The sources provide consistent information regarding Canada's decision to halt military equipment exports to Israel following a parliamentary motion, but there are differing perspectives on the implications of this decision for Israel's right to self-defense and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.