In a move aimed at disrupting the expansion of settlements and outposts in the West Bank, Canada has imposed its fourth round of sanctions under the Special Economic Measures (Extremist Settler Violence) Regulations. The announcement was made by Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand on June 10, 2025.
The new sanctions list two individuals, Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, for their role in facilitating extremist settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. This latest round of sanctions comes as tensions in the region continue to escalate, with violent clashes between Israeli extremists and Palestinian civilians resulting in forced displacement and increased instability.
The measures announced by Anand are in coordination with several countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Norway, and are a response to recent escalations of violence by Israeli extremist settlers against Palestinians. The sanctions aim to send a clear message that such actions are unacceptable and pose serious obstacles to peace and the realization of a two-state solution.
“We resolutely stand with the Israeli and Palestinian peoples and their right to live in peace and security, with dignity and without fear,” said Anand. “Today’s sanctions are part of our unwavering commitment to supporting Israel’s security while condemning extremist violence against civilians.”
The sanctions follow previous rounds announced in May 2024, June 2024, and February 2025, which listed 15 individuals and 7 entities for their role in extremist settler violence. The United Nations has reported over 1,800 attacks by settlers against Palestinians since October 7, 2023.
The Canadian government has long opposed the expansion of settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, citing concerns over regional peace and security. The measures announced today are a continuation of Canada’s efforts to address this issue, with a focus on supporting a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the Middle East.
Background
Canada has been critical of Israeli settlement expansion, with the United Nations calling it a “serious obstacle” to achieving a two-state solution. The 1949 Geneva Convention relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War applies in the occupied territories, including Gaza, and establishes Israel’s obligations as an occupying power.
The Canadian government has also condemned recent terror attacks by Hamas and reaffirmed its commitment to a negotiated peace agreement between Israelis and Palestinians.
Reactions
Reaction to the new sanctions has been mixed, with some praising Canada’s efforts to address extremist violence while others have criticized the move as being too little, too late.
The United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Norway have all expressed support for Canada’s actions, emphasizing the need for concerted international action to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with reports of civilians suffering under blockade and humanitarian aid restrictions, Canada’s efforts to promote peace and stability are being closely watched by the international community.