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Myanmar Earthquake: Death Toll Climbs to 3,145 Amid Ongoing Rescue Efforts

The devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar nearly a week ago has claimed at least 3,145 lives, with search and rescue teams continuing to recover bodies from the rubble. The 7.7 magnitude quake, which had its epicenter near Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city, caused widespread destruction, including collapsed buildings, damaged roads, and destroyed bridges.  Humanitarian aid groups are working tirelessly to provide survivors with medical care and shelter, as thousands remain homeless and vulnerable to disease outbreaks. The United Nations estimates that over 17 million people have been affected by the disaster, with more than 9 million severely impacted.  In response to the crisis, Myanmar's military government has declared a temporary ceasefire to facilitate relief efforts. However, ongoing challenges, including communication blackouts and difficult-to-reach areas, have hindered the full assessment of the disaster's impact.  The coming days will be critical in d...

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Canada Imposes Sanctions on Extremist Israeli Settlers in the West Bank

 

 In a significant move, Canada has imposed sanctions on individuals accused of engaging in violence against Palestinian civilians and their property in the West Bank. These are the first-ever sanctions targeting extremist Israeli settlers under the Special Economic Measures Act. The escalating violence by extremist settlers has undermined human rights, prospects for a two-state solution, and regional security. Since October 7, 2023, there have been at least 800 settler attacks against Palestinians, resulting in verbal or physical assaults, property damage, and forced displacement of communities.

The Sanctioned Individuals:

  1. David Chai Chasdai
  2. Yinon Levi
  3. Zvi Bar Yosef
  4. Moshe Sharvit

These individuals are now prohibited from dealings related to Canada and are rendered inadmissible under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. Canada remains committed to a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the Middle East, opposing the expansion of illegal settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly emphasized that acts of extremist settler violence are unacceptable, and perpetrators will face consequences. The rise in violence poses significant risks to peace and security in the region, affecting families forced to leave their homes due to threats by extremist settlers.

Canada’s stance aligns with the Geneva Convention, which applies in the occupied territories and establishes Israel’s obligations as an occupying power regarding the humane treatment of inhabitants. While other countries like the U.S., U.K., and EU have also taken measures against violent Israeli settlers, Canada’s recent sanctions represent a crucial step in addressing this ongoing violence.

As the situation unfolds, Canada continues to advocate for a peaceful resolution and justice for affected communities in the West Bank.

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