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Anand's hollow concerns

On August 20, 2026, the Canadian government made a statement along with France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, and the United Kingdom on the Israeli Government’s decision to publish construction tenders for the E1 settlement project.

“The Israeli Government’s decision to publish construction tenders for the E1 settlement project is unacceptable. The international community has long opposed this settlement expansion and has voiced their grave concerns privately and publicly.” It continues saying “International law is clear that Israeli settlements in the West Bank are illegal. This is the position of the international community reaffirmed by the United Nations Security Council.”

So said Canada.

But what? Rabid, violent narcissts are rampaging over the West Bank, destroying life – vegetable, mammal and human – while the State's heavily armed and fully armoured teenagers in uniform just watch. 

The time when having the courage to make a contradictory statement could be lauded is over. Without consequences behind concerns and warnings, this statement is worth less than nothing.

Join me (and Just Peace Advocates) in writing a letter. 


Canada has again condemned the E1 plan. Thank you for saying the right thing. 

But condemnations without consequences are not enough. We know Ms Anand is "concerned" and nothing has changed. 

Words will not stop Israel, which has been operating with impunity for too long.

Canada's weak words followed indication that the Israel Land Authority announced tenders for E1 with a closing date of October 19th. Israeli settlements are illegal, including the E1 project. 

However, Canada must do more than release statements; it must take tangible action to stop the E1 annexation plan and end all support for illegal Israeli settlements. Canada is currently supporting illegal settlements through trade, investments, charity tax relief, strategic support, and weapons.

Canada must immediately issue advisory alerts to all Canadian entities against participation in, or investments in companies participating in, the construction of any settlement projects, including in the E1 area.

Further, Canada must immediately implement sanctions against foreign entities participating in illegal settlement activity, including the maintenance of current illegal settlements. The UK is currently drafting a sanctions regime in this regard. It is time this Canadian government do the same. 

Further, Canada must institute legal proceedings against Canadian entities engaged in the maintenance or expansion of Israel’s illegal settlements.

When the bids are opened on October 19, E-1 will be a reality. We are at the point of no return. Canada, you cannot let this come to pass.

Canada must take action immediately.


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