Canada is cutting aid and relations with the Palestinian Authority, Ottawa announced shortly after the Hamas government formally took power Wednesday.

The decision, which makes Canada the first country besides Israel to cut off aid.

“The contingency is that until such time as we see a change in position from the Hamas government and the Palestinian Authority, there will be no direct contact, and there will certainly be no aid flowing through that government,” Foreign Affairs Minister Peter MacKay told reporters on Wednesday.

In doing so the Canadian government has indicated it will continue…

“Working with our partners and through the United Nations, its agencies and other organizations, Canada will continue to support and respond to the humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people,” Verner said.

“Canada will also continue to work with the voices of moderation within Palestinian society.’”

Josee Verner is the Federal International Co-operation Minister.