We don’t believe Hamas would respect a ceasefire: Canada’s Defence Minister
Canadian Defence Minister Bill Blair said on Tuesday (October 24) that Canada's government does not believe Hamas would respect a cease-fire in its conflict with Israel.
“I have no expectation that a terrorist organisation would respect international law or any call for a cease-fire,” Blair said before heading into a Cabinet meeting.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said afterward that Canada supports the idea of “humanitarian pauses,” temporary halts to fighting, allowing for aid to get into Gaza safely, and people to leave.
Hamas is sworn to Israel's destruction, and Blair said it is a threat as long as it exists.
"I think (Israel has) a right to defend themselves against that terror threat," Blair said. “And quite frankly, Hamas has to be eliminated as a threat, not just to Israel but to the world? Canada has listed Hamas as a terrorist group since 2002 and has no dealings with any of its leaders.