Canada announced a freeze on arms exports to Israel

International Desk: Canada has announced a ban on arms exports to Israel. Foreign Minister Melanie Jolly announced this on Tuesday (March 19). Canada's parliament passed a 'non-binding' resolution on arms exports to Israel on Monday, a day before the announcement.

Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Jolly told the Toronto Star that it was a matter of fact. The vote was part of a broader call for the international community to work toward a two-state solution to the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians. The Canadian government also wants a two-state solution.

The original proposal was put forward by the minority left-wing New Democrats. They helped Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's Liberal Party stay in power. But they now feel that Trudeau is not doing enough to protect civilians in the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

Canada said last week it had halted non-lethal military exports to Israel since January. Trudeau has taken an increasingly critical stance against the military offensive in Gaza, despite strongly proclaiming Israel's right to self-defense. On the other hand, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz criticized Canada for its decision to freeze arms exports.