Betrayal in Action: Palestinian Canadians Condemn Canada’s Failed Gaza Visa Scheme

Shattered Hopes Amid Unrelenting Bombardment

Palestinian Canadians are outraged at what they describe as a betrayal by the Canadian government, highlighting the failure of a temporary Gaza visa scheme. Launched with the promise of providing a safe haven, the programme has been plagued by inefficiency and confusion. Families like Omar Omar’s, who have tirelessly advocated for the safety of their loved ones in Gaza, face devastating realities. “This exhausting advocacy has drained our resources and torn apart the lives we’ve tried to build,” Omar said during a recent press conference in Ottawa. As Israeli airstrikes continue, families grow desperate, urging Canada to take meaningful action.

A Visa Scheme Doomed from the Start

The Gaza visa programme, announced earlier this year, aimed to allow Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their extended family members out of Gaza. However, from its inception, it was criticized for its overly invasive application process and vague requirements. Applicants were subjected to questions far beyond typical visa applications, including detailed work histories and inquiries about scars or injuries requiring medical attention. Critics argue that these measures reflect a troubling double standard, especially when compared to Canada’s response to other humanitarian crises.

A Stark Contrast: Ukrainian vs Palestinian Visas

The disparity in Canada’s treatment of Ukrainian and Palestinian applicants has fueled anger and accusations of bias. Over a two-year period, Canada approved more than 960,000 visas for Ukrainians fleeing war — an 81% approval rate — with nearly 300,000 people arriving. In contrast, the Gaza visa programme capped applications at 5,000 and saw only 733 approved as of October 5, with just 334 Palestinians arriving in Canada. Families like Omar’s have been left to wonder why their suffering is met with significantly less compassion and urgency.

Borders Closed, Lives at Risk

One of the primary obstacles to the programme’s success lies outside Canada’s direct control: the blockade on Gaza. Israel and Egypt control the Rafah border crossing, the primary exit point for Palestinians, and it has remained largely inaccessible amidst Israel’s ongoing offensive. Canadian officials argue that their hands are tied by this blockade, but advocacy groups insist Canada must apply greater diplomatic pressure. “If this government was serious about saving Palestinians, Israel would face serious consequences for preventing their exit,” said Alex Paterson of Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East.

Was Failure by Design?

Advocacy groups have raised chilling questions about the programme’s design and intentions. “This delay, even as relentless bombardment continues, is a tragedy,” said Amnesty International Canada’s David Matsinhe. The success of Canada’s Ukrainian visa programme demonstrated the government’s ability to act decisively during crises. Yet, the stark contrast in how the two crises were handled raises concerns about whether the Gaza programme was set up to fail. Matsinhe has called on Canada to remove the cap on applications and increase diplomatic efforts to ensure safe passage for Palestinians.

A Call for Justice and Humanity

As the death toll in Gaza surpasses 43,972, Palestinian Canadians continue to demand justice and accountability. The heartbreak and frustration are palpable among families like Omar’s, who feel abandoned by the country they call home. “The betrayal — the cold refusal — has left me questioning if there is any compassion left for people like us,” Omar said. Advocacy groups are urging Canada to rise to the occasion, reminding the government that its actions during humanitarian crises reflect its core values. The world is watching, and time is running out.