Ottawa, ON – The Hon. Erin O’Toole, Leader of Canada’s Conservatives and the Official Opposition, released the following statement on Israel’s Independence Day:

“Today, the Jewish community in Canada and around the world celebrates Yom Ha’Azmaut, Israel’s Independence Day.

“This national day commemorates the Declaration of Independence of the State of Israel by future Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion on May 14, 1948.

“As Canadians, we are proud to have been one of the first countries to recognize the State of Israel. Under my leadership, a Conservative government will move the Canadian embassy to Jerusalem and finally recognize the city as Israel’s rightful capital.

Canada and Israel have a longstanding relationship marked by close ties. Since its modern rebirth, Israel has become not just a model democracy, but a free and pluralistic society.

“It is intolerable that even after more than 70 years, Israel continues to be threatened by groups and regimes who deny its right to exist. Members of the Jewish community in Canada face anti-Semitic hatred far too often. Canada’s Conservatives will always stand against anti-Semitism and hatred in all its forms. 

“On behalf of Canada’s Conservatives, I wish all members of the Jewish community, both in Canada and around the world, a happy 73rd anniversary of Israeli independence.

“Yom Ha’Atzmaut Sameach!”

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For more information:
Josie Sabatino
Josie.Sabatino@parl.gc.ca
(613) 402-1589

Axel Rioux
Axel.Rioux@parl.gc.ca
(613) 291-7125