Press Release
National Council on Canada-Arab Relations (NCCAR)
For Immediate Release
Date: September 23, 2024
Ottawa, ON – The National Council on Canada-Arab Relations (NCCAR) is deeply concerned by the ongoing war in Palestine and the escalating violence in Lebanon. Today marks the deadliest day since the Israeli war in 2006, with reports indicating that over 500 people have lost their lives, including 20 children. Recent Israeli airstrikes have devastated communities, forcing families to flee their homes and creating an urgent humanitarian crisis. We extend our solidarity to the affected civilians and express our condolences to the families of the victims.
There are currently close to 45,000 Canadians in Lebanon, as confirmed by Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly. While the Canadian government has hinted at its limitations in organizing an evacuation, we believe that this is not an acceptable stance in the face of a growing crisis. Canada must take action now and be fully prepared to address this situation, ensuring that Canadians are not left in harm’s way.
NCCAR is also grievously concerned about the recent indiscriminate attacks from a likely state actor using exploding communication devices in Lebanon and Syria. Since these types of attacks are not only a violation of international humanitarian law but also a violation of the United Nations Charter. While Israel has not officially claimed responsibility, it has been widely blamed for the attacks. The incident has since significantly escalated the tensions and furthered the conflict in the region.
We call on the Canadian government to take the following immediate actions:
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Immediate Evacuation Plan for Canadians in Lebanon: The Canadian government must act swiftly to establish a clear and comprehensive evacuation plan to safely bring home Canadian citizens currently stranded in Lebanon. With nearly 45,000 Canadians in the region, the stakes are high, and inaction is not an option.
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Visa Program for Lebanese Family Members: Many Canadians have immediate family members in Lebanon who are caught in the midst of this crisis. We call on the government to expedite a temporary visa program to reunite families, ensuring their safety in these uncertain times.
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Humanitarian Assistance and Medical Supplies: The NCCAR urges the Canadian government to provide urgent humanitarian aid, including medical supplies and personnel, to support hospitals and clinics overwhelmed by the influx of wounded civilians in Lebanon and Palestine.
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Diplomatic Pressure for De-escalation: The Canadian government must actively work with international partners to place increased pressure on all parties involved to cease the violence and return to the peace tables. Diplomacy must take precedence over military action in resolving this conflict.
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End to the Illegal Occupation of Palestine and Recognition of the State of Palestine: We demand an end to the illegal occupation of Palestine and call for the recognition of the state of Palestine. A just and lasting resolution to the conflict requires respecting the rights and sovereignty of the Palestinian people, in accordance with international law.
The NCCAR remains committed to advocating for peace and justice in the region. We stand ready to work with the Canadian government and international organizations to ensure that Canadian citizens and their families are protected during this crisis.
NCCAR is a not-for-profit charitable organization based in Ottawa, dedicated to fostering greater understanding and knowledge among Canadians about the cultural, historical, and socio-economic realities of the people of the Arab world.
Your support is vital for our mission. By clicking this link Canadahelps.org you can make a donation today and join us in our journey towards positive change. For more information about NCCAR and our upcoming events, please visit our website at www.nccar.ca. Media Contact: NCCAR Communications Email: [email protected] or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter at @NCCAR_.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Rania Hamdan
President, NCCAR
email:[email protected]
Telephone:613 255-3376
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