HAMILTON, Canada
More than half of Canadians support maintaining a ban on weapons sales to Israel, with nearly half backing its expansion to include a full two-way weapons embargo, according to a recent poll.
The Mainstreet Research survey, commissioned by the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM), found that 55% of respondents support Canada’s prohibition of weapons exports to Israel due to the situation in the Gaza Strip.
Additionally, 49% believe Canada should go further by restricting the sale of weapons parts, military services and training to Israel.
The poll revealed strong public support for the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.
More than 56% said Canada should uphold the ICC’s decision, which could theoretically lead to Netanyahu’s arrest if he enters the country.
Among Liberal Party voters, support for recognizing the ICC warrant is particularly high, with 70% in favor. Conservative voters are evenly split on the issue, with half either supporting Netanyahu’s arrest or are unsure.
The survey was conducted on a sample of 1,090 Canadians between March 22 and March 23, with a margin of error of +/- 3% at a 95% confidence level.
Canada announced a complete ban on all arms shipments to Israel in March 2024. Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said the decision followed a parliamentary motion that passed with a significant majority.
In September, Canada announced it was suspending 30 permits for arms sales to Israel and canceled a contract with a US company to sell Quebec-made ammunition to the Israeli army.
