Statement from Opposition Leader Stiles

OTTAWA – Marit Stiles, the Leader of the Official Opposition NDP has issued the following statement:

“I’m thinking of everyone who is directly or indirectly impacted by the atrocities of war in Israel and Gaza, including people here in Ontario with loved ones in the region.

MPP Jama’s statement yesterday did not unequivocally decry the violence against Israelis by Hamas and it caused harm to Jewish people who are feeling pain and fear right now. It did not reflect our party’s positions on the war and was sent without approval.

In working with MPP Jama over the last 24 hours, I understand the personal impact that this is having on her as someone with Palestinian family members. She is not alone in this experience.

At the same time, I have made it clear that all members of our caucus condemn Hamas’ terror attacks, and we stand in support of the federal NDP’s position in calling for an end to further bloodshed. MPP Jama has reaffirmed her commitment to this.

New Democrats have always advocated passionately for the human rights of Palestinians and Israelis. We have stood together with communities against anti-Semitism, anti-Palestinian racism and Islamophobia. We believe Canada has a role in securing peace in the region and support efforts to win a political solution that results in peace, security, freedom and mutual self-determination for Israelis and Palestinians.”

QUOTES

MPP Sarah Jama (Hamilton Centre):

"I heard many voices yesterday raising concerns about my post. I hear them - and above all, I understand the pain that many Jewish and Israeli Canadians, including my own constituents, must be feeling. I apologize.

To be clear, I unequivocally condemn terrorism by Hamas on thousands of Israeli civilians. I also believe that Israel’s bombardment and siege on civilians in Gaza, as was also noted by the United Nations, is wrong.

As a member of the Ontario NDP caucus, I stand by the position of our federal party, and believe that violence against civilians is never justified, and that there is no military solution to this conflict."