Canada to Recognize Palestinian State at UN in September, Prime Minister Mark Carney Announces

Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed on Wednesday that Canada will officially recognize a Palestinian state at the United Nations this September. The announcement comes amid intensifying international pressure over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and growing dissatisfaction with the current state of Israeli-Palestinian relations.

Carney criticized the Israeli government for what he described as its failure to prevent the “rapidly deteriorating humanitarian disaster” in Gaza. He emphasized that Canada’s recognition would be conditional, based on the Palestinian Authority implementing key reforms, including demilitarization and holding general elections by 2026.

Shift in Canada’s Foreign Policy

This move signals a major shift in policy. Canada now joins the United Kingdom and France in supporting Palestinian statehood recognition at the United Nations. Both countries made similar announcements in recent weeks.

If the plan proceeds, Canada will be among the first G7 nations to back this recognition. However, the move remains largely symbolic within the UN framework.

Prime Minister Carney said the two-state solution is “no longer tenable.” He pointed to the ongoing war in Gaza and stalled peace talks.

Carney also condemned Hamas for its October 2023 terrorist attack. He criticized Israel’s recent actions in the West Bank, including the annexation vote and rising settler violence.

Mixed Reactions Domestically and Internationally

The Israeli embassy condemned the move, calling it a reward for terrorism that threatens Israel’s security. Jewish groups like CIJA said Carney’s trust in the Palestinian Authority was “misplaced.” Meanwhile, the National Council of Canadian Muslims welcomed the decision, calling it historic and a step toward justice and self-determination.

Carney emphasized that Hamas will not be involved in the process. He also confirmed a personal commitment from Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas to push for democratic reforms.

Growing Global Support for Recognition

The announcement comes after 173 former Canadian diplomats publicly urged the government to recognize a Palestinian state and implement broader measures, such as trade restrictions on Israeli exports from occupied territories and a two-way arms embargo.

Meanwhile, an unprecedented declaration from the Arab League and European nations urged Hamas to disarm and relinquish power in Gaza—a notable shift in diplomatic tone across the region.

What do you think about Canada recognizing Palestinian statehood? Should it have waited for a full peace agreement? Let us know in the comments.

More…

• https://www.cpac.ca/headline-politics/episode/pm-carney-canada-intends-to-recognize-palestinian-statehood–july-30-2025?id=d97ff32a-5cd0-4106-ba62-11207e47577d
• https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/video/9.6851304
• https://nationalpost.com/news/politics/canada-mark-carney-to-recognize-palestinian-state