The United States has authorized the sale of over $20 billion in weapons to Israel amidst global condemnation. In Canada, the news drew attention as more than $60 million worth of munitions will be manufactured in the country for this sale, raising concerns about transparency in Canada’s arms export regime.
Canadian experts argue that Canada is failing to ensure that their weapons are not used in potential human rights violations, as required by law. The weapons are being sent to Israel through a special US-Canada trade partnership established in the 1950s, which allows for the permit-free movement of military items between the two countries.
The involvement of a Quebec-based company in the arms deal, supplying high-explosive mortar cartridges to Israel, has raised questions about the lack of oversight by Canadian officials. Despite growing calls for an arms embargo on Israel, Canada has not revoked existing permits for weapons exports to the US that could ultimately end up in Israel.
Canadian lawyers and human rights advocates criticize the flaws in Canada’s arms export controls, highlighting the ease with which weapons can end up in Israel through the US. They argue that Canada has failed to meet its international legal commitments by allowing arms transfers to Israel that may contribute to violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law.
Palestinian rights advocates in the US have also expressed concern over Canada’s involvement in supplying weapons to Israel, urging Canadian authorities to ensure that no Canadian-manufactured weapons are used in abuses against Palestinians. They argue that it is time for other countries, including Canada, to hold both Israel and the United States accountable for their actions.
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