Burnaby, British Columbia, becomes the first Canadian city to call for a two-way arms embargo on Israel.
By The-14
August 30, 2025
Burnaby, B.C. – In a historic move, Burnaby has become the first Canadian city to formally demand a complete two-way arms embargo on Israel, aligning itself with growing international calls for accountability as Gaza faces an escalating humanitarian catastrophe.
On August 26, 2025, city councillors voted unanimously to adopt a motion urging Ottawa to halt all arms sales, purchases, and military cooperation with Israel. The motion also commits Burnaby to the Apartheid-Free Communities Pledge, placing the city among a global network of municipalities and institutions that refuse complicity with Israel’s system of apartheid, settler colonialism, and occupation.
Councillor Alison Gu, who introduced the motion, emphasized the urgency of the decision, noting that many Burnaby residents are “horrified as they watch these crimes against humanity unfold in real time.”
The motion itself declares:
“The pledge affirms Burnaby City Council’s commitment to freedom, justice, and equality for the Palestinian people and all people, opposes all forms of racism, bigotry, discrimination, and oppression; declares ourselves an Apartheid-free community; and pledges to join others in working to end all support to Israel’s Apartheid regime, settler colonialism, and military occupation.”
Beyond foreign policy, councillors also called on Ottawa to reform the Gaza temporary resident visa (TRV) program, highlighting the urgent need for separated families to be reunited safely in Canada.
Community members and advocates praised Burnaby’s stance as a groundbreaking precedent for municipalities across the country. The vote comes as famine looms over Gaza and international leaders — including Pope Leo XIV — continue to press for an immediate ceasefire to safeguard civilians.
With this decision, Burnaby signals that local governments can take meaningful action where federal silence persists — and that the demand for justice in Palestine is no longer confined to the streets but entering Canada’s city halls.
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