Prime Minister Mark Carney has urged a prompt execution of the initial stage of the peace agreement proposed by the United States between Israel and Hamas, following the announcement of a ceasefire deal late Wednesday. President Donald Trump stated that this involves Hamas releasing all remaining Israeli hostages and Israel withdrawing its troops to a mutually agreed line. Carney commended Trump, as well as representatives from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, for their efforts in achieving this first milestone.
Expressing relief that the hostages will soon be reunited with their families, Carney emphasized the importance of swiftly implementing all agreed terms to pave the way for a just and enduring peace. If enacted, the deal would mark significant progress in resolving a long-standing conflict that has escalated into a regional crisis.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre also lauded President Trump for his role in the peace process, referring to it as a significant step towards achieving peace for future generations. He extended his wishes for the safe return of all hostages and an end to the ongoing violence, fostering an environment where all can prosper in a lasting peace.
Carney disclosed earlier in the day that he had engaged with key figures in Trump’s peace plan, including former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and Jared Kushner, the president’s son-in-law. He emphasized Canada’s collaboration with Gulf and Arab nations in supporting the U.S. peace initiative, aligning with the proposed 20-point peace plan put forth by President Trump.
Trump’s plan includes provisions for a ceasefire, an exchange of hostages, Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, Hamas disarmament, and the establishment of a transitional government overseen by an international body. Blair is expected to play a pivotal role in the proposed “board of peace” that will supervise the implementation of a potential ceasefire, while Kushner serves as one of the president’s envoys in the peace negotiations.
Despite the positive development of reaching the first phase of the agreement, uncertainties remain regarding the governance of Gaza post-conflict. Various stakeholders have differing views on the future administration of Gaza, with Netanyahu, Trump, Western and Arab states excluding Hamas from any governing role in the region.
As the peace efforts progress, Israel has scaled back its military operations in Gaza at the request of Trump, although military actions have not ceased entirely. The conflict has taken a heavy toll on Gaza, with significant casualties and widespread destruction. The situation underscores the urgent need for a durable resolution to bring stability and security to the region.
