Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt – October 13, 2025: Prime Minister Mark Carney has welcomed the release of hostages under the first phase of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, calling it “a moment of profound relief” after more than two years of anguish for the families affected.
“The release of hostages is a moment of profound relief. After over two years of suffering, today families are finally reunited,” said Carney, noting the deep emotional significance of the day for the Jewish community — one marked by both grief and hope.
The Prime Minister extended Canada’s gratitude to the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye for their crucial diplomatic efforts in facilitating the agreement.
Carney also paid tribute to the victims of Hamas’ terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023, including Canadians Vivian Silver, Netta Epstein, Alexandre Look, Judih Weinstein, Shir Georgy, Ben Mizrachi, and Adi Vital-Kaploun, as well as others connected to Canada, such as Tiferet Lapidot. “May their memories be a blessing,” he said.
Emphasising that the release must serve as a “turning point toward lasting peace,” Carney urged all parties to uphold the ceasefire terms — including the continued withdrawal of Israeli troops and the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
The Prime Minister commended U.S. President Donald Trump for his “essential leadership” in advancing a comprehensive peace plan, which envisions transitional governance for Gaza and a permanent political framework for a demilitarised Palestinian state. “Hamas must disarm and play no role in the future governance,” Carney stated.
Since October 2023, Canada has provided over $400 million in humanitarian and development aid to address the ongoing crisis in Palestine. Carney reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to supporting large-scale humanitarian delivery and working with global partners toward a just and lasting peace in the Middle East — one grounded in a two-state solution.
