CIJA Responds to the Return of Israeli Hostages

Ottawa, ON – October 13, 2025 – Noah Shack, CEO, Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), issued the following statement regarding the return of Israeli hostages from Gaza:

"The hostages endured unimaginable suffering in the tunnels of Gaza: starved, tortured, and held in darkness for over two years. Today, we share in their families’ relief and gratitude as those who survived this nightmare are finally home. For the families that have or will receive the remains of murdered hostages, we share in their mourning and the painful solace of knowing their loved ones will soon be in their final resting place in Israel.

"We urge our government to continue supporting the U.S.-led peace initiative, recognizing that this is only the first phase of a broader initiative. The Government of Canada must take a principled stand for peace, which begins with the complete disarmament and removal of Hamas and all terror groups that threaten Israelis and Palestinians.

"While for Canada's Jewish community this is a moment of hope, we continue to be alarmed by extremists who oppose peace and celebrate terrorism in our streets. Just as our government should continue to stand for peace in the Middle East, it must take decisive steps to counter the violent extremism targeting the Jewish community, threatening our democracy, and endangering all Canadians."

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