Canada Revokes Visa of Individual Associated with Israeli Forces’ Spokesperson’s Unit
Lat week, an Israeli-Greek national associated with the Israeli military’s Spokesperson’s Unit was held for questioning at Toronto Pearson International airport upon his arrival in Canada. The individual, Guy Hochman, was held for 6 hours until the Israeli Foreign Minister allegedly intervened for his release. Hochman has now stated that he received a letter informing him that his Canadian visa has been revoked.
The authorities’ investigation into Hochman was the result of a coordinated effort by the Legal Centre for Palestine, Canadian Lawyers for International Human Rights, and the Hind Rajab Foundation to deliver evidence of Hochman’s incitement to genocide to the relevant authorities.
Hochman was recruited as an entertainer linked to the Israeli military’s Spokesperson’s Unit in October 2023. He has a history of using dehumanizing and violent language about Palestinians, advocating for collective punishment of the population in Gaza, and praising Israeli soldiers who raped a Palestinian in a detention facility. He has also filmed himself obstructing an aid convoy bound for starving Palestinians in Gaza and encouraging others to join.
Canada’s revocation of Hochman’s visa vindicates calls by Palestinians for justice. Although Israeli officials and individuals associated with the Israeli military have long acted with impunity, the Legal Centre for Palestine will continue to seek accountability for those who have contributed to the genocide in Gaza.
