Canada has announced a fivefold increase in visas for Palestinians wishing to join family members in the North American country.
Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, revealed that Ottawa would increase the number of visas available to Gaza residents under a special plan introduced in December of last year.
Miller stated that Canada is working to assist Palestinians attempting to leave Gaza, but that passage out of the territory is now impossible due to reasons beyond Canada’s control.
The program originally provided 1,000 temporary visas, but owing to tremendous demand, the amount was expanded to 5,000. Currently, 448 Gazans have been awarded TRVs, but only 41 have landed in Canada thus far.
Miller voiced concern about the present status of the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, but remained optimistic about the Canadian government’s ongoing efforts, stating:
“While movement out of Gaza is not currently possible, the situation may change at any time. With this cap increase, we will be ready to help more people as the situation evolves. Our focus remains on keeping families together.”
Miller said that both Israel and Egypt will play important roles in implementing these measures and helping to reunite families in Canada.
Miller continued:
“Canada continues to put forward the names of those who have passed preliminary screening to local authorities to secure their exit from Gaza. Israel and Egypt are both important partners in implementing these temporary, humanitarian measures and helping people reunite with their family in Canada. Canada is working—at every level—to facilitate the exit of extended family members and advocate for their safety. We will continue to advocate for people’s safety.