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| Statement on Middle East Crisis (Libby Davies, MP (NDP) Vanvouver East. I am deeply concerned with the recent escalation of violence by Israeli forces in Lebanon, and deeply disappointed with the Conservative government's response to this crisis. Many constituents have contacted my office expressing their outrage and concerns about Canada's response. By calling Israel's military response to the kidnapping of three of its soldiers as “measured”, Prime Minister Harper has failed to show leadership on such a critical issue. I have written to the Prime Minister to express my concern as the Member of Parliament for Vancouver East. Israel's disproportionately brutal response to the unlawful and provocative kidnappings by Hamas and Hezbollah militants is a violation of international law, and has put the whole region on the brink of war. The bombing of Beirut International Airport, and of bridges that lead in and out of the city, has endangered the lives of countless Lebanese civilians, and is a terrible display of collective punishment against the Lebanese people. Over 160 people have been killed since Israel began its bombardments last week. The situation in Gaza is also of concern, as Israel's bombing of critical infrastructure, including a power station, has endangered the health and safety of hundreds of thousands of Gazans. We learned of the deaths of seven Canadian tourists in Lebanon, including four young children, who were killed following an Israeli air strike. By not immediately setting up an evacuation plan for Canadians caught in the violence in Lebanon, the Canadian government has failed to ensure the safety of its citizens. It is becoming obvious that the Prime Minister is willing to put his friendship with George Bush ahead of his duty to protect Canadian citizens, and Canadian interests and values abroad. I urge the Canadian government to immediately call on Israel to halt its attacks in Lebanon. Too many innocent lives have already been lost, and the Prime Minister's silence on this matter is disgraceful. Both sides in this conflict must end the violence and return to peace talks before the situation spirals out of control any further. |