Prime Minister Mark Carney says the next two days will be decisive for the U.S.-backed Gaza peace plan, urging all parties to honour their commitments as Canada looks at ways to support the emerging ceasefire process.
“We’re encouraged, but it’s the first phase and there’s more to come,” Carney told reporters Thursday morning on Parliament Hill ahead of a cabinet meeting. He emphasized that “the next 48 hours are crucial” as Israel and Hamas begin implementing the first phase of their agreement.
The plan includes Hamas releasing 20 living hostages while Israel withdraws its troops to a designated line, creating a pause in fighting that is intended to lead to a phased end to the war. Carney thanked U.S. President Donald Trump, along with Qatar, Egypt and Turkey, for their role in brokering the deal, and called on Israel and “particularly Hamas” to release all hostages, including the deceased.
Canada is currently providing humanitarian aid to Gaza and exploring additional ways to support the peace process. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand confirmed Ottawa’s involvement in a broader 20-point plan designed to keep both sides at the negotiating table. “The future after the release of hostages is what is on the table right now,” she said.
Community groups across Canada have reacted with cautious hope. The National Council of Canadian Muslims expressed optimism for a permanent ceasefire while stressing accountability for war crimes. The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs also welcomed the potential for lasting peace, noting the deep impact the conflict has had on Jewish Canadians and Canadian society.
Behind the scenes, Global Affairs Canada is in discussions with international partners about a possible stabilization force and transitional governance structure for Gaza, though no decision has been made on Canada’s participation. Ottawa has supported similar missions in the past without deploying troops, such as its role in Haiti.
Canadian humanitarian supplies, including food, water and medicine, are pre-positioned at border crossings, ready for rapid deployment by UN agencies, the Red Cross, and partner organizations once conditions allow.
As diplomatic efforts intensify, Canada is positioning itself as both a supporter of peace and a provider of immediate humanitarian assistance during a pivotal moment in the Gaza conflict.