Defense attaché in Canada to return to Israel, will not be replaced, Defense Ministry tells 'Post'

Israel's Defense Attaché to Canada, Ilan Or, is returning to Israel, and the position will not be refilled, the Defense Ministry confirmed. This change is part of a global realignment of Israel's defense attaché network.

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This arrangement ensures full continuity of engagement while leveraging the capabilities of our robust Defense Attaché Office in Washington.

The Defense Ministry stated that Canada's defense responsibilities will now be managed through a cross-accredited defense attaché based in Washington D.C. This arrangement aims to ensure continuity of engagement while utilizing the resources of the existing Defense Attaché Office in Washington. The ministry noted that such cross-accreditation, including dual coverage of the U.S. and Canada, is a common practice.

This marks the first time in 14 years that Canada will not have a resident Israeli defense attaché. The decision comes at a time of notably strained relations between the two countries. However, the Defense Ministry emphasized that Israel highly values its defense relationship with Canada and remains committed to strengthening bilateral defense cooperation.

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Israel attaches great importance to its defense relationship with Canada and remains fully committed to maintaining and further strengthening defense cooperation between the two countries.

The ministry clarified that the role concerning Canada has not been abolished or neglected but will continue under a different operational framework. This adjustment is presented as an efficiency measure within a broader strategic review of Israel's diplomatic and defense representation abroad.

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Accordingly, the role of the Defense Attaché with respect to Canada has neither been abolished nor neglected; rather, it will continue to be carried out through a different operational framework.