The Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) is expressing deep concern over the recent denial of entry to a Canadian delegation seeking to visit Palestine. This incident raises troubling questions about transparency, humanitarian access, and Canada’s ability to assess conditions in regions affected by conflict and occupation independently.
As a nation that champions human rights and international justice, Canada has a responsibility to ensure that its officials, civil society leaders, and humanitarian observers can access areas where credible human rights concerns have been documented. Restricting such access undermines Canada’s capacity to advocate for peace, accountability, and the protection of civilians.
ICNA is calling on the Government of Canada to take immediate and meaningful action, including:
· Requesting a formal explanation for the denial of entry and communicating the findings transparently to Canadians
· Affirming Canada’s right to ensure its delegations can conduct humanitarian, fact-finding, and civil society missions without obstruction
· Advocating for unhindered access to Palestine for Canadian observers, humanitarian workers, and human rights organizations
· Reaffirming Canada’s commitment to international human rights standards and the protection of those who work to uphold them
“Canadians expect their government to stand firmly for justice, dignity, and the protection of human rights,” said Khalid S Khan, Chair of the Civic Engagement Committee at ICNA. “When Canadian delegations are blocked from witnessing conditions on the ground, it limits our nation’s ability to make informed decisions and advocate for peace. We urge the Government of Canada to respond with clarity and resolve.”
ICNA encourages Canadians across the country to remain engaged, informed, and vocal in their support for transparency and human rights.
Media Contact:
Khalid S Khan (civicengagement@icna.ca) Chair,
Civic Engagement Committee
Islamic Circle of North America
