Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has called the treatment of activists detained by Israel aboard a Gaza-bound aid flotilla 'appalling' and demanded an independent investigation. He also described the situation in Gaza as 'catastrophic' and reaffirmed Canada’s opposition to Israeli settlement expansion and violence against Palestinian civilians.

Activists released after the interception alleged abuse during detention, with several hospitalized for injuries and at least 15 reporting sexual assaults, including rape. Israel’s prison service denied the allegations. Canada’s foreign minister said Israel had denied detained Canadians access to consular services, calling it a violation of the Vienna Convention.

The dispute has further strained relations between the two countries. Israel’s ambassador said bilateral ties were at their lowest point, while Israel’s foreign minister claimed the activists were inspired by Hamas and urged Canada to address rising antisemitic incidents domestically.