Canadian Primate Speaks on Palestinian Christians, But Critics Say He Overlooks Key Realities

Hamas, Not Israel, Bears Responsibility for Gaza's Humanitarian Crisis, Argue Critics

Canadian Anglican Archbishop Shane Parker

By David W. Virtue, DD

www.virtueonline.org

February 25, 2026

Archbishop Shane Parker, Primate of the Anglican Church of Canada, recently visited the Anglican Diocese of Jerusalem. During his trip, he expressed strong concern for Palestinians in Gaza, describing the situation as "the squeezing out of a people, the crushing of a people." While he did not explicitly assign blame, his remarks were widely interpreted as critical of Israel.

However, critics argue that Parker's assessment overlooks crucial context. They contend that Hamas—not Israel—is primarily responsible for the ongoing suffering in Gaza. If Hamas were to lay down its arms and surrender, they note, the war would end immediately. Yet Hamas has repeatedly rejected ceasefire terms, including key provisions of former President Trump's proposed peace plan, and has affirmed it will not relinquish control of Gaza or its weapons.

Humanitarian Concerns and Competing Narratives

During his visit, Archbishop Parker described dire conditions near Gaza: "It was cold and wet, the nights were long and dark… people were living in meagre tents and children were dying from exposure. It's appalling. It is a true humanitarian crisis, and the solution is within reach—but the forces at play are simply not engaging."

Critics respond that this crisis stems not from Israeli policy but from Hamas's governance and the 2005 electoral choice by Gazans to support a group whose charter calls for Israel's destruction. They argue that humanitarian conditions would improve significantly if Hamas ceased hostilities and prioritized civilian welfare.

Aid, Access, and UNRWA

Parker called for:

• Lifting blockades on humanitarian aid to Gaza

• Ending impunity for settler violence in the West Bank

• Reaffirming support for UNRWA's relief efforts

• Ensuring Gaza's reconstruction upholds "dignity, equity, and self-determination"

Yet he did not address concerns about UNRWA's operational integrity. A UN Watch report has documented how Hamas and Islamic Jihad have allegedly influenced the agency's decision-making—a factor cited by Israel in restricting UNRWA's activities within its borders.

Regarding aid delivery, critics note that Israel has facilitated the entry of substantial humanitarian supplies since the conflict began: over 1.9 million tons of aid, nearly 100,000 truckloads, including food, medical equipment, and more than 4,000 tons of baby formula. Israel states it coordinates closely with international partners to ensure aid reaches civilians while preventing diversion to militant groups.

Medical Cooperation and Security Realities

Contrary to narratives of total isolation, Israel provides significant medical support to Palestinians. According to Project Rozana, nearly 100,000 Palestinian patients—including children requiring chemotherapy or dialysis—receive specialized care in Israeli and East Jerusalem hospitals annually. Six Palestinian-administered hospitals in East Jerusalem offer advanced treatments unavailable in the West Bank or Gaza.

Parker acknowledged he could not enter Gaza, citing security concerns. The IDF has stated it cannot guarantee visitor safety in active conflict zones—a reality that complicates humanitarian access and external observation.

On Pilgrimages, Infrastructure, and Arms

When asked about changes since his last visit, Parker noted a sharp decline in religious pilgrimages, with economic consequences for local Christian communities. He also referenced "micro and macro pressures" on Palestinians, including infrastructure projects like new highways in the West Bank.

Critics counter that such infrastructure serves legitimate security needs. Facing threats from Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, ISIS in Syria, and Iran's substantial military presence—all of which have publicly called for Israel's destruction—Israel argues that strategic transportation networks are essential for national defense, much as the U.S. interstate system was originally justified under President Eisenhower.

On the question of arms shipments to Israel, Parker offered a measured response: "People need to inform themselves and follow their conscience. If those hearing my remarks have connections or can make decisions that might effect change, then they should make them." Critics interpret this as an implicit call to halt military support for Israel—a move they warn could leave Israel vulnerable to escalation.

A Call for Balance—and Accountability

Parker concluded by affirming: "Neither they nor we want to be construed as anti-Israel. Israel has a right to exist. Its citizens have a right to live without fear of terrorism or war. The people of Palestine have an equal right to live without fear, without violence or deprivation of human rights."

Yet critics note a persistent omission: the role of Hamas and other militant groups in perpetuating civilian suffering. They argue that lasting peace requires not only humanitarian aid and diplomatic engagement but also the dismantling of terrorist governance in Gaza.

In summary: While Archbishop Parker's concerns for Palestinian civilians are shared by many, critics contend that a complete account of the crisis must include Hamas's responsibility for initiating and prolonging the conflict—and that sustainable solutions depend on addressing that reality.