Canada has not been issuing new permits for arms exports to Israel since January 8. The temporary ban on approving new contracts will remain in place until Ottawa can ensure that the weapons are being used in accordance with Canadian law, reports Reuters. This decision is associated with pressure from left-wing parties on the government, which are calling for a tougher stance on Israel amid the fighting in the Gaza Strip. However, permits for exports approved before January 8 remain valid. “Canada has one of the most rigorous export permit regimes in the world. There are no open permits for ex…