Canada announces five-fold increase in visas for Palestinians in Gaza

Canada has announced a significant increase in visas for Palestinians seeking to reunite with family members in the country, raising the number to 5,000. Minister of Immigration Marc Miller emphasized Canada's concern for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where movement out of the territory is currently restricted. Residents wishing to join family in Canada must secure approval from Israeli authorities and undergo biometric screening in Egypt. Canada is actively working with Israel and Egypt to facilitate the temporary, humanitarian measures. Additionally, Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Melanie Joly condemned an Israeli airstrike on a Palestinian camp in Rafah, calling for an immediate ceasefire. The strike resulted in numerous civilian casualties, prompting international outcry.