Canada sanctions individuals affiliated with Hamas in response to terrorist attacks against Israel
News release
February 6, 2024 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada is imposing new sanctions under the Special Economic Measures Act (SEMA). The sanctions apply to 11 individuals that hold senior positions within Hamas or its affiliates and were integral to the planning, funding and execution of the October 7 terrorist attacks against Israel.
Along with its international partners, Canada is taking decisive action to limit Hamas’s ability to raise and use funds to carry out further attacks against Israel. These measures will impose a prohibition on dealings related to the listed individuals and are being announced in support of efforts by Canada’s international partners to implement additional sanctions against Hamas and its affiliates. This is the first time that Canada has named SEMA regulations against a non-state actor.
The list of sanctioned individuals includes:
- Yahya Sinwar, leader, Hamas
- Muhammed Deif, military leader, Hamas
- Akram al-Ajouri, military leader, Palestinian Islamic Jihad
Today’s announcement comes as part of Canada’s response to the grave breach of international peace and security on October 7, 2023, and the ongoing threat posed by Hamas and its affiliates to Israel. Canada remains committed to supporting peace and security in the Middle East and will continue to take action against Hamas and its affiliates.
Quotes
“Canada unequivocally condemns Hamas’s terrorist attack against Israel, its unacceptable treatment of hostages and its heinous use of sexual and gender-based violence as a tactic of war. Today’s announcement marks a significant step in Canada’s response to these acts and demonstrates our commitment to a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East.”
- Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Quick facts
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Canada has listed Hamas as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code since November 2002. It is a criminal offence to knowingly participate in or contribute to any activity by Hamas. Canada has also listed the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Hezbollah, al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigades and other groups as terrorist organizations under Canadian legislation, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1373 (2001). The Government of Canada has no contact with these groups.
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Members of a listed terrorist entity are inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. In addition, property owned by listed terrorist entities in Canada may be subject to seizure, restraint, or forfeiture.
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Israel has a right under international law to take the necessary measures, in accordance with human rights and international humanitarian law, to protect the security of its citizens from attacks by terrorist groups.
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