NUPGE Statement on the Escalation of Violence in Israel and Palestine

Like all Canadians, indeed all people, we are horrified by the scenes of suffering and pain we are seeing in Israel and Palestine after the severe escalation in violence that occurred on October 7, 2023.Our thoughts are with all those who have family or loved ones in the region, as well as with the innocent people living there.We condemn the Hamas attack on Israel as well as the retribution by the State of Israel on the people of Palestine. We denounce any acts of violence against innocent civilians.We are concerned that the actions of the State of Israel against the peoples of Gaza will not lead to a peaceful resolution. Denying a population food, water, electricity, and other necessities of life will only create further misery and hostility.Canada has historically taken a strong stand against the targeting of civilians and religious sites. The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) calls on the Government of Canada to

• immediately call for a cease-fire by both parties,
• demand the enforcement of international law,
• work toward a peaceful resolution that respects the rights of Palestinians and Israelis.

NUPGE has long called for a resolution to the conflict between Israel and Palestine that respects and follows all UN resolutions and international law. This includes the withdrawal of Israel from occupied Palestinian lands. We stand in solidarity with all those who seek a just and lasting peace in the region and further commit to working towards that goal.