Statement from the Minister of National Defence regarding the explosion at Al Ahli Arab Hospital on October 17, 2023

October 21, 2023 - Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

The Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Bill Blair, issued the following statement:

“Canada is deeply saddened by the loss of life caused by the explosion at Al Ahli Arab hospital in Gaza on October 17, 2023. We reiterate our sincere condolences to all those who lost loved ones.

“In order to determine what happened, the Prime Minister asked me to task the Canadian Armed Forces with preparing an independent review and analysis of the explosion. The Canadian Forces Intelligence Command (CFINTCOM) undertook that review and analysis. Today, after briefing the Prime Minister, I am releasing its findings.

“Analysis conducted independently by the Canadian Forces Intelligence Command indicates with a high degree of confidence that Israel did not strike the hospital on October 17, 2023. The more likely scenario is that the strike was caused by an errant rocket fired from Gaza. We will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.”

Associated Links

• Canada’s response to the crisis in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip
• Canada provides additional funding for humanitarian assistance in Gaza Strip and neighbouring areas