Ottawa:Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand has called for the opening of all crossings into the Gaza Strip as heavy rains and flooding exacerbate the dire conditions for Palestinian families. Despite the urgent appeal, Anand did not explicitly name Israel in her remarks.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, Anand highlighted the worsening situation by sharing a post from UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher on the social media platform X. She emphasized the urgent need for winter supplies in Gaza, stating that the ongoing rains and flooding have left shelters flooded and temperatures dropping, further endangering lives.
Anand reiterated the necessity for essential supplies, including food, durable shelter, warm clothing, and heating, to be delivered to those in need. In discussions with G7 partners, she emphasized Canada's role as a significant donor and advocate for humanitarian assistance, emphasizing the need for unimpeded access for goods and supplies through international organizations.
She further urged all involved parties to remove obstacles preventing the timely delivery of aid, joining what she termed a "Call to Action." Anand's remarks conspicuously avoided direct reference to Israel, which maintains control over access to the Gaza Strip.
Tom Fletcher, earlier on Wednesday, criticized the delays in delivering winter supplies to Gaza, dismissing the wait for the formation of a new Israeli government as "not an acceptable excuse."