Ottawa, August 3, 2025 – In a statement released earlier this week, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Anita Anand, reiterated the country’s hard line stance on arms exports to Gaza, amid criticism surrounding a recently released report. The Canadian government has drawn a clear distinction between its current and past policies, emphasizing that no new permits for controlled goods have been approved since January 2024.
According to Global Affairs Canada officials, several claims made in the report are misleading and do not accurately represent the facts. For instance, items identified as ‘bullets’ are actually paintball-style projectiles designed to make a firearm inoperable with traditional rounds. These cannot be used in combat and would require a permit that would not be granted.
Additionally, officials have confirmed that no mortars have been shipped from Canadian manufacturers to Israel since permits were suspended. Furthermore, explosive materials such as bullets or other munitions are not transported on passenger aircraft, rendering allegations of circumventing Canada’s export regime as false.
Canada continues to deny any export permits for materials that could be used in Gaza. The government takes any allegations of violating its export regime seriously and would be accompanied by severe legal sanctions if proven true.
Key Facts:
- Canada has refused any new permits for controlled goods that could be used in Gaza since January 2024.
- No mortars have been shipped from Canadian manufacturers to Israel since permits were suspended.
- Explosive materials such as bullets or other munitions are not transported on passenger aircraft.
In conclusion, Canada’s stance on arms exports to Gaza remains unchanged. The country’s commitment to upholding its export regime and ensuring that Canadian-made weapons do not fuel conflicts is unwavering. As the situation in the region continues to evolve, the Canadian government will remain vigilant in protecting its national interests while promoting peaceful resolution and humanitarian concerns.