Following more than a year of devastating conflict, the UN estimates that the entire population of Gaza, more than 2 million people, is in need of urgent emergency assistance. At the same time, the West Bank is facing escalating violence, significant displacement, and movement restrictions that are hampering the delivery of vital humanitarian assistance and worsening the overall humanitarian crisis.
Today, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Development, announced more than $99 million in funding to support the UN, World Bank, Red Cross and NGO partners in delivering international assistance to Gaza and the West Bank. This funding demonstrates Canada's continued commitment to supporting the humanitarian response in Gaza and the West Bank, as well as efforts to make life-saving interventions more sustainable.
The funding announced today for Gaza and the West Bank includes the following:
- $20 million to restore essential services, particularly in the health sector, and foster resilience among vulnerable communities
- $24.55 million to support the provision of life-saving assistance, including food, protection and shelter
- $24.75 million in peace and security programming to support mine action and related activities
- $30 million to strengthen economic recovery, social resilience, and governance in the West Bank by supporting the Palestinian Authority's role in stabilization and reconstruction efforts
The current humanitarian situation it not sustainable. Canada reiterates its call to allow the free flow of humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians in need. International humanitarian law must be respected, including the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers.
Canada calls for an immediate end to hostilities, for Hamas to release all hostages and lay down its arms, and for Israel and Hamas to negotiate in good faith to reach a sustainable and lasting ceasefire.
Canada continues to stand ready to support efforts toward a 2-state solution, where Israelis and Palestinians can live side-by-side in peace, security, and dignity.
