1. Summary: On September 15, 2024, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) entered the Balata Refugee Camp near Nablus, a hotspot for militant activity. Around 1,000 militants, mainly armed with assault rifles and skilled in using improvised explosive devices (IEDs), were reported to be active there. The move into Balata marked an escalation in Israeli operations following Hamas’s attacks on southern Israel in October 2023, which killed over Israeli 1,200 civilians. Previously, the IDF had focused on other conflict zones like the Jenin and Tulkarm camps. During the Balata clash, Palestinian militants fired on IDF forces and detonated an IED, damaging a bulldozer. The confrontation lasted into the night with no reported casualties. On September 16, the Al-Quds Brigades, affiliated with Islamic Jihad, claimed responsibility for the battle, though their claims of Israeli casualties were dismissed by Palestinian sources. The Balata camp is also a site of external influence, with Jordanian intelligence reportedly using militants there for political leverage against Israel. Several influential figures in Nablus have ties to the Jordanian government.
Canada’s betrayal of Israel: ‘Irresponsible and shameful’
This betrayal of Israel is embarrassing for any true supporter of Canada as well as of true Canadian values. It should be roundly condemned.
By ALAN BAKER | SEPTEMBER 18, 2024
CANADA’S FOREIGN MINISTER Melanie Joly attends an ASEAN meeting, in Vientiane, Laos, in July. She and her colleagues and supporters from Quebec seem to be imbibed with a caustic hatred of Israel, the writer charges. photo credit: CHALINEE THIRASUPA/REUTERS)
The concept of commonality of values has always been a steadfast principle in Canada’s relationships with its friends and allies.
Such commonality of values was perhaps voiced most clearly in an address by former prime minister Stephen Harper to Israel’s parliament – the Knesset – some years ago, in which he listed the historic and long-standing values shared by Canada and Israel. He ended his historic address by reiterating the vital message to Israel: “Canada will always have Israel’s back.”












