Rabat – In his message to Muslims on Eid Al Fitr, Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recalled the devastating humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Trudeau’s message is a customary statement issued during religious events to emphasize the importance of Muslim communities and their contribution to their countries’ socio-economic development.
In his message, Trudeau stressed that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to unfold, making Eid a challenging time.
“Canada reaffirms its call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the safe, unimpeded access to humanitarian relief for civilians,” he said.
The death toll in Gaza reached over 33,300 since October 7, while over 76,000 were injured.
Since the start of the war, Canada has been facing criticism over its support for Israel’s war fought for self-proclaimed self-defense, resulting in merciless aggression targeting civilians across Gaza.
The Muslim experience in Canada
Emphasizing the importance of the Muslim community’s contribution, Trudeau said Eid provides an opportunity to recognize the important role of Muslim communities across the country.
“They have helped build the strong and diverse Canada we know and love, and we will always stand with them,” Trudeau said, extending his best wishes to everyone celebrating the feast.
The 2021 census identified the number of the Muslim community as 1.8 million people.
The Muslim percentage in Canada’s population has more than doubled from 2001 to 2021 from 2% to 4.9%.
The community faces several challenges, however, including Islamophobia.
In March, Trudeau renewed their commitment to fighting against Islamophobia during his official message, where he extended best wishes to Muslim communities living in Canada.
In addition to Trudeau, US President Joe Biden also extended his best wishes to the Muslim community living in the country.
On X, formerly Twitter, Biden said: “As Muslim families and communities come together for Eid al-Fitr, they are also reflecting on the pain felt by so many,.”
He said that his thoughts are with those around the world, enduring conflict, hunger, and displacement including Gaza and Sudan.
