Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a significant policy change this week. Canada will officially recognize a Palestinian state during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025. This decision reflects a growing trend among Western nations responding to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and seeking to reshape the global approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The decision followed a special Cabinet meeting convened to address the crisis in Gaza. Carney cited discussions with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who had made a similar commitment earlier in the week. Carney emphasized the intolerable level of human suffering in Gaza and stated that Canada could not remain inactive. He underscored the need for international action to preserve the possibility of peace.
Canada's recognition will be conditional. The Palestinian Authority must commit to holding free and fair general elections in 2026, excluding Hamas from participation. Additionally, the future Palestinian state must begin a process of demilitarization. Carney acknowledged that establishing a viable democratic state would be a complex and lengthy process, but he emphasized that the alternative was continued despair and endless conflict.
The announcement comes amidst increasing international outrage over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza. Global leaders are facing mounting domestic and diplomatic pressure due to the ongoing crisis. Carney also mentioned discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron, whose government declared its intention to recognize Palestine this September.
two states living side by side in security and dignity.
Israel's current government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, opposes the two-state solution. In response, many Western nations are now moving unilaterally toward recognizing Palestinian statehood.
While largely symbolic in its immediate effect, Canada's recognition will carry diplomatic weight. It follows the lead of over 140 countries, including a growing number in Europe. France's announcement made it the first major Western power to formally endorse Palestinian statehood.
Canada has historically supported the idea of a Palestinian state existing peacefully alongside Israel. However, it previously insisted that recognition should result from a negotiated settlement. Carney's decision signals that Ottawa now views direct recognition as a tool to revive meaningful negotiations rather than waiting for them.
5 Comments
Donatello
Mark Carney should focus on domestic issues rather than meddle in foreign conflicts. Canada has no business in this matter.
Raphael
Mark Carney is showing the world that Canada stands for human rights, even when it's politically challenging.
Leonardo
Instead of pushing for recognition, we should focus on encouraging direct negotiations between both parties.
Michelangelo
This decision aligns with the will of many Canadians who want to see justice for Palestinians. It’s about time!
Raphael
The recognition of a Palestinian state is premature and ignores the ongoing unrest. We should be promoting peace talks, not taking sides.