Saskatchewan Pledges Medical Support for Israel, Condemns Terrorist Attacks

An Israeli soldier walks past burnt-out vehicles near Kibbutz Re’im in southern Israel after the attack on the Supernova music festival by Hamas terrorists, on Oct. 10, 2023. Jack Guez/AFP via Getty Images

The Saskatchewan government has announced $100,000 in medical aid to help Israel, and condemned the terrorist attacks by Hamas that have left hundreds dead and others taken hostage.

Israel was attacked on Oct. 10, and “at that time, we were all reminded that there is evil in the world,” Premier Scott Moe said before the Saskatchewan Legislature.

“As we in Canada had the privilege of gathering together to celebrate Thanksgiving with our families and friends, Israelis spent the day searching for their loved ones, or mourning for those that they were already aware had been lost,” he said.

“At this time, it’s estimated that more than 1,000 people were killed, including two Canadians.”

Mr. Moe announced the money was going to the humanitarian organization Canadian Magen David Adom for Israel (CMDA). A government news release said the CMDA is the only authorized fundraising organization in Canada dedicated to supplying ambulances, medical equipment, and supplies to support pre-hospital lifesaving efforts in Israel.

“At this time, we must show our support for Israel and all of its citizens,” Mr. Moe told the legislature. “We cannot sit idle as interest groups proudly spread antisemitic misinformation propagated by terrorist organizations. Not since the Holocaust have we seen this kind of unrelenting violence against the Jews on such a profound level.”

“There is no justification for the brutal, intentional, and indiscriminate mass murder of Israeli civilians that has and continues to take place,” he added.

NDP Leader Carla Beck also rose to condemn the terrorist attacks.

“I join with the premier and leaders around the world in condemning the terrorist attacks in Israel. We need to see an immediate end to these terrorist attacks and call for the immediate release of all hostages,” said Ms. Beck, who leads the opposition party in Saskatchewan.

“Real and lasting peace is what’s needed.”

Mr. Moe also drew a parallel between the attack on Israel and the invasion of Ukraine.

“Our government will stand united against barbarism, whether it’s [Russian President Vladimir] Putin’s unconscionable invasion of Ukraine, or sadistic attacks from Hamas terrorists,” he said.

“We must condemn this blatant disregard for human rights, and support Israel’s right to defend itself.”