Airlifts of Canadian citizens out of Israel have begun and the federal government is pledging $10 million dollars for humanitarian assistance as the violence between Israel and Hamas escalates.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addressed the unfolding situation during a housing announcement in Yellowknife yesterday.

He says Israeli and Palestinian civilians deserve to live in peace, security and dignity with their human rights respected. “Canada will be providing an initial $10 million dollars in humanitarian assistance to address urgent needs in Israel and in the Gaza Strip” says Trudeau.

Melanie Joly is in Israel meeting with partners to get a first-hand assessment and determine where Canadian assistance is most needed.

Two Canadian Armed Forces flights departed Tel Aviv yesterday with 236 Canadians on board. Two additional flights are taking place today, including one that left earlier today with 133 people on board.