Tightening Arms Regulations Proposed by NDP, Highlighting Permissive U.S. Export Loophole for Arms Sales to Israel

In a significant move aimed at upholding Canada's commitment to human rights, NDP MP Jenny Kwan will introduce a Private Members Bill in the Canadian Parliament later this month. The bill, known as the "No More Loopholes Act," is designed to close a loophole in Canada's arms export laws that has allowed Canadian-made weapons to be supplied to Israel via the United States, despite an existing ban.

The loophole in question is part of a defense production agreement between Ottawa and Washington. It enables the U.S. to purchase Canadian arms and send them abroad, bypassing some of Canada's arms control protocols. This loophole has been a subject of controversy, with critics arguing that Ottawa has not fully adhered to its promise to block sales of Canadian arms potentially used in Gaza.

The loophole's existence has been a point of concern, especially since Ottawa restricted arms exports to Israel in early 2024. However, the government initially stated that the ban applied only to lethal arms, later confirming that sales of arms to Israel used to defend civilians would still be allowed.

NDP MP Jenny Kwan has been vocal about the need for greater transparency regarding Canada's arms exports and has emphasized the importance of closing this loophole. She stated that the bill is about making Canada's words meaningful, refusing to profit from bloodshed, and ensuring Canada is not complicit in atrocities.

The bill is focused on ensuring that Canada's actions align with its values of refusing to profit from bloodshed and the killings of civilians. Kwan insists that the NDP still advocates for a full arms embargo on Israel, and she has emphasized the need to prevent Canada from being complicit in potential atrocities.

The report on this matter, authored by Dylan Robertson, was first published on September 4, 2025, by The Canadian Press. Advocates are pushing for a total arms embargo on Israel, and Kwan's bill to close the loophole is a step towards achieving that goal.

Ottawa has been criticized for a sale of Quebec-made ammunition to Israel, which was eventually not carried out. The government's stance on arms exports to Israel has been a topic of debate, with many calling for stricter regulations to ensure Canada's involvement in arms exports aligns with its values and commitments to human rights.

As the bill is tabled in Parliament, it will undergo further discussion and debate. The outcome of the bill remains to be seen, but its introduction marks a significant step in the ongoing conversation about Canada's role in arms exports and its commitment to human rights.

Tightening Arms Regulations Proposed by NDP, Highlighting Permissive U.S. Export Loophole for Arms Sales to Israel