Municipal leaders across Canada have expressed their support for Israel and condemned the recent terrorist attacks launched by Hamas.
As the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to escalate, mayors and councillors from various Canadian cities have stood in solidarity with Israel's right to defend itself and have expressed their condolences for the innocent lives lost in the violence.
Sunday Morning Israeli media say at least 600 people have been killed in the surprise cross-border incursion by Hamas militants from the Gaza Strip.
Municipal leaders took to social media to express their support for Israel and express their solidarity with the Jewish communities in their community.
Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe made a strong statement of support, saying, "I've spoken this weekend with leaders of Ottawa's Jewish community to offer my support and to express my shock and condemnation at the terrorist attacks against innocent Israeli citizens by Hamas. Israel has the right to defend itself against terrorism. On behalf of all Ottawa residents, I stand in solidarity with Ottawa's Jewish community."
Mayor Matt Shoemaker of Sault St. Marie expressed his remorse, saying, "On behalf of the City of Sault Ste. Marie, I mourn the senseless loss of lives that has resulted today from the terror attacks launched by Hamas against Israel."
Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek added, "The horror we have seen unfold in Israel today is inhumane and requires leaders to stand together in condemning violence. Planned warfare is not the way to make political statements. My heart is with the Jewish community in Calgary."
Georgina Councillor Dave Neeson strongly condemned the acts of violence, stating, "Sickening to see the terror unleashed by Hamas against innocent Israeli citizens. These acts of violence must be condemned. Israel has every right to respond and defend itself. Thinking of all affected both globally and locally."
Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti joined in the international chorus of condemnation, saying, "I strongly condemn today's terrorist attack on Israel, including the assault on innocent civilians. I join the international community in expressing shock and anger and hope for peace. Israel has the right to defend its borders, and I stand in solidarity with Markham's Jewish community."
Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath expressed her condolences, saying, "Horrifying news today about an attack in Israel. My heart goes out to everyone on the ground affected by these senseless acts of violence."
Guelph Mayor Cam Guthrie wrote on X, "These terror attacks on #Israel are senseless and horrific. We also know the impacts locally within our Jewish community as they watch with concern and heartbreak from afar. Let us pray for peace and stand together to condemn these actions."
Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham condemned the attacks, stating, "I join those unequivocally condemning today’s attack on Israel. I have spoken with leaders in Winnipeg’s Jewish community to express my support. Our thoughts are especially with residents of Winnipeg’s sister city, Be’er Sheva, during this time of crisis."
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sims assured that the City of Vancouver stood with its Jewish community, saying, "The City of Vancouver will always stand with our Jewish community. We unequivocally condemn this act of terrorism by Hamas against Israeli civilians. Our hearts are with all those who have been impacted."
Whitehorse Councillor Ted Laking, condemned the attacks as a reminder of the evils of antisemitism, saying, "The invasion of Israel by terrorists this morning is a shocking reminder of the evils of antisemitism. Innocent civilians, including children, are being targeted through acts of violence. I condemn these attacks and stand with Israel as it defends itself."
As the ongoing war continues to develop, their voices are a sign of enduring bonds between Canada and Israel.