Canada has announced plans to formally recognise a Palestinian state in September, joining recent moves by other major Western nations. The decision marks a significant shift in Canadian foreign policy and comes amid growing international momentum for renewed efforts toward peace in the region.
Prime Minister Mark Carney said the recognition will depend on key reforms by the Palestinian Authority, including a commitment to hold democratic elections and exclude Hamas from any governing role.
This follows similar announcements from other global powers in recent days, all aimed at pressuring Israel toward a ceasefire and restarting the peace process. However, Israel has strongly objected, calling Canada’s decision harmful and accusing it of rewarding terrorism.
The Prime Minister cited several reasons behind this policy change: the continued expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the deadly attacks on Israel in October 2023. He emphasized that the suffering in Gaza has become unbearable, and the current peace approach has failed.
While reaffirming Canada’s long-standing support for a two-state solution, Carney said the situation had reached a point where the idea of a future Palestinian state was slipping away. “We cannot stand by as this possibility disappears before our eyes,” he said.
The recognition will be made official during the upcoming UN General Assembly. Carney also confirmed he had personally spoken with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas to discuss the plans.
Under the proposed conditions, any future Palestinian state must be demilitarised and governed through a reformed Palestinian Authority, which currently holds control over parts of the West Bank. The Gaza Strip remains under Hamas control, and neither region has held elections since 2006.
Criticism of Canada’s decision has come from several corners, including Israel’s government and opposition leaders at home. Some believe the move sends the wrong message following the deadly events of October 2023. Still, pressure had been mounting, with many urging Canada to act in line with its international allies.
A recent open letter signed by nearly 200 former diplomats called on the government to respond to what they described as the ongoing displacement, bombardment, and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Carney stated that Canada makes its own foreign policy decisions, though the timing closely follows announcements by close allies. If implemented, Canada’s move would leave the United States as the only permanent member of the UN Security Council that has yet to recognise Palestinian statehood.
The conflict remains deeply complex. While the initial Hamas attack last year resulted in over 1,200 Israeli deaths and the taking of hostages, the military response has led to tens of thousands of Palestinian casualties and growing international alarm over the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
The global debate around Palestinian statehood continues to intensify, and Canada’s upcoming recognition is likely to fuel both diplomatic efforts and tensions in the months ahead.