Canada's top political party leaders gathered in Toronto on Sunday to speak at a forum organized by the city's Jewish community.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff, NDP Leader Jack Layton and Green Party Leader Elizabeth May were all present to take part in a discussion about Israel, terrorism and other social issues.
The forum was held at the Beth Emeth Bais Yehuda synagogue at the Canadian Jewish Congress' 29th plenary assembly.
The leaders used the opportunity to express their support for Israel.
"I want to make it very clear my party will never claim to be the only genuine defenders of Israel in politics because we don't want to be alone in the defense of Israel," said Ignatieff when he addressed the sold-out crowd in his keynote address.
May also spoke up and called for "acceptance."
"There needs to be full acceptance by all of Israel's neighbours for the right of Israel to exist. That has to be part of the solution," she said.
However, the biggest proclamation came from Harper who used the opportunity to announce new legislation that will allow victims of terrorism to sue perpetrators and supporters of terrorism in Canadian courts.
"This week in Parliament we will introduce legislation that will give victims of terrorism the power to obtain just compensation from those responsible," he said.
He released few other details about his plan.
Harper, was recognized by the CJC for his efforts to defend human rights. He was presented with the 2009 Saul Hayes Human Rights award at Sunday's event.
"I'm truly humbled and greatly honoured," he said.
With a report from CTV Toronto's Michelle Dube
