Israel Pulls Canada Defense Attache as Ties Keep Straining

Israel will bring Col. Ilan Or, its defense attache in Ottawa, home at the end of July and will not post a resident replacement in Canada, with the portfolio handled by a cross-accredited attache in Washington. The Defense Ministry told Israeli and Jewish outlets the move is part of a global realignment and does not abolish the Canada role, while Ambassador Iddo Moed said resources are being directed to higher-interest partners. Reports say it is the first time in 14 years that Israel will lack a resident defense attache in Ottawa, a signal that cooperation with Canada is being downgraded while ties remain strained over Ottawa's pressure on Israel during the war. Jerusalem can keep defense continuity through Washington while making clear that allies who pressure Israel during a defensive war cannot expect business as usual.