'It will get worse before it gets better': Joly on Israel conflict; says 3 Canadians reported missing
CTV
The escalating conflict in Israel and the Gaza Strip will definitely worsen before we see any improvement, Canada's Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly said Monday.
The escalating conflict in Israel and the Gaza Strip will definitely worsen before any improvement is seen, Canada's foreign affairs minister told CTV News Chief Political Correspondent Vassy Kapelos on Monday.
Speaking to CTV's Power Play, Melanie Joly said that she has been in contact with her counterparts in Israel, the Gaza Strip and neighbouring countries searching for a way to de-escalate the volatile situation, which has already killed nearly 1,600 people on both sides.
"We've received reports of one Canadian dead and also three missing, so that's information I can provide you at this point," Joly said. "And of course, my thoughts and my heart is with those who are affected by this multi-front terrorist attack against the Israeli people."
Joly said that they are in contact with the families involved.
On Sunday, Global Affairs Canada said it was aware of reports that one Canadian had died and two were missing.
Hamas militants launched a surprise attack in Israel on Saturday, striking numerous Israeli towns on the border with the Gaza Strip, as well as a music festival, killing hundreds in the process.
In the days since, Israel has responded by increasing its bombardment of the Gaza Strip and sealing it off from food, water, fuel and other supplies.