Former Canadian Diplomats Urge Recognition of Palestinian State

Nearly 200 former diplomats and ambassadors from Canada are appealing to Prime Minister Mark Carney to formally acknowledge the statehood of Palestine. In a letter sent on July 29, they argue that Canada should align with the 147 nations that have already recognized Palestine as a state, emphasizing that such recognition would reinforce Canada's commitment to the self-determination of the Palestinian people and reject attempts to displace them.

The letter underscores that recognizing a Palestinian state would pave the way for meaningful bilateral negotiations, particularly by sending a strong signal to the current Israeli government, which opposes the establishment of a Palestinian state. Notable signatories include former ambassadors to Israel, such as Jon Allen and Lisa Stadelbauer, as well as Jeremy Kinsman, a career diplomat.

In related developments, Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, along with officials from other nations, recently signed a joint statement at a UN conference advocating for an immediate ceasefire and reaffirming the necessity of a two-state solution. The statement indicated that some countries, ahead of the upcoming UN General Assembly meeting, are either prepared to recognize Palestine or are considering doing so as a vital step towards achieving peace.

The letter from the former diplomats also raises concerns over the deteriorating situation in Gaza, citing issues like the displacement and suffering of civilians due to violence and starvation, as well as the attacks from extremist groups in the West Bank. In addition to calling for state recognition, the signatories proposed measures to pressure both Israel and Hamas towards establishing a ceasefire, securing the release of hostages, and ensuring unrestricted access for humanitarian organizations in the region.