Statement by Minister Anand on the release of Israeli hostages

October 13, 2025 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:

“My thoughts are with the families of Israeli hostages today. After more than two years, they are being reunited with their families. I am also thinking of those who were murdered, including Canadian citizens. May their memory be a blessing.

“The return of hostages is part of the first phase of the peace agreement developed by the United States, Egypt, Qatar and Türkiye. We are grateful for their hard work to reach this point. Canada will continue to encourage all parties to take the necessary steps towards a lasting peace, as outlined in the U.S. plan.

“Hamas must never play a role in the future governance of Gaza. It must lay down its arms immediately.

“Israel must continue to withdraw its troops to behind the agreed-upon lines.

“Canada will continue to support the delivery of humanitarian assistance at scale in Gaza, working with international partners. Since October 2023, Canada has committed approximately $400 million in development and humanitarian assistance for Palestine.”