RCMP Investigating Potential War Crimes as IDF Soldiers Appear at Canadian Events
TORONTO – As the RCMP pursues a structural investigation into potential war crimes related to the Israel-Hamas conflict, Israeli Defence Force (IDF) soldiers are appearing at public speaking events across Canada, sparking controversy and calls for scrutiny from human rights advocates. The RCMP investigation, announced in June, aims to collect and assess information relevant to Canada’s Crimes Against Humanity and War crimes Act.
The timing of these events, coupled with the ongoing RCMP investigation – unprecedented in its focus on a close ally like Israel – is raising questions about whether individuals possibly implicated in international crimes are being adequately vetted upon entry into Canada. Critics argue that allowing alleged perpetrators of war crimes to freely travel and speak in Canada undermines the country’s commitment to international law and justice.
The RCMP investigation was launched after reports of widespread devastation and alleged human rights violations in gaza. According to a statement released by the RCMP, the investigation will “collect, preserve, and assess information potentially relevant under Canada’s Crimes Against Humanity and War Crimes Act” in relation to the conflict.
International law expert Daniel Kersten,a professor at the University of Waterloo,noted the sensitivity of the investigation,stating,”never before has Canada opened a structural investigation into a context in which its own ally is credibly implicated in countless international crimes.” He added that the same rules should apply irrespective of a nation’s alliance.Kersten expects the RCMP to be interviewing individuals who have served in the IDF and are entering Canada, but says he has seen no evidence this is occurring.
Recent events include appearances by IDF soldiers in cities like Toronto and Montreal.Details surrounding the events,including specific dates and venues,have been widely circulated on social media,drawing both support and protest.
CBC News reached out to the RCMP for comment on whether thay have interviewed or investigated IDF soldiers, but did not receive a response by press time. Immigration,Refugees and Citizenship Canada confirmed that foreign nationals visiting on Israeli passports undergo pre-travel screening,and are examined by the Canada Border Services Agency upon arrival,but declined to comment on specific cases due to privacy legislation.
The investigation and the IDF soldiers’ appearances are occurring against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where significant destruction has been reported. A recent photograph taken in Gaza City by The Associated Press shows Palestinians inspecting the ruins of a building following an Israeli strike.
