Edmonton mayor’s social media post on Middle East violence leads to debate
Global News
A social media post from Edmonton's mayor about the violence in the Middle East this weekend has drawn sharp criticism as well as support.
A social media post from Edmonton’s mayor about the ongoing violence in the Middle East this weekend has drawn sharp criticism as well as support.
“When events unfold across the globe, they can have a deep impact on people who live in our city,” Amarjeet Sohi posted on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. “The attacks taking place in Israel and Gaza targeting innocent civilians are horrific.
“I know that many Edmontonians have friends and family in these areas, and I am extending my support and empathy to them. We stand with you and share in your hope for a just and lasting peace in the region.”
Sohi’s post came as people around the world continue to watch in horror as violence continues to escalate in the wake of a deadly attack on Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas.
After crossing into Israel with on Saturday, hundreds of Hamas gunmen spent hours gunning down civilians and kidnapping others in the country, according to The Associated Press. Palestinian militants also fired thousands of rockets at Israel.
Israel has since retaliated with airstrikes on the Gaza Strip and by sealing the territory from food, fuel and other supplies. The Associated Press reported on Monday afternoon that the death toll had risen to nearly 1,600 on both sides.
Israel, whose right-wing government includes some ministers who oppose the idea of any Palestinian statehood, is facing calls to crush Hamas’ military capability while Hamas says it is preparing for a long battle to end Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territory.
Since Sohi posted his statement on social media Sunday afternoon, it has received hundreds of replies ranging from sharp criticism to outright support of his comments.