OTTAWA, May 20 – Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered sharp criticism of Israel on Wednesday, calling the nation’s handling of Gaza flotilla activists “abominable” in an unusually strong rebuke of a close ally.
The Canadian government announced plans to call in Israel’s ambassador following the release of a video by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir that showed him mocking the detained activists, who were forced into kneeling positions with their hands bound behind their backs.
“The abominable treatment of civilians aboard the flotilla, including that which is documented in footage shared by Itamar Ben-Gvir, is unacceptable,” Carney wrote on social media.
“Canada has already imposed strict sanctions on Mr. Ben-Gvir, including asset freezes and a travel ban, in response to his repeated incitement of violence.”
Israeli naval forces had stopped the activist flotilla in international waters on Tuesday before bringing those aboard to an Israeli port.
Under Carney’s leadership, Canada has taken an increasingly firm stance toward Israel. Carney became head of the Liberal Party and Prime Minister in March 2025, succeeding Justin Trudeau.
Last September, Carney declared Canada’s recognition of Palestinian statehood, a move that drew anger from Israeli officials.
