Canada Joins G7 Allies in Planned Recognition of Palestinian State

Canada's move, contingent on Palestinian governance reforms, faces criticism from Israel and opposition parties.

Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced the country's intention to formally recognize a Palestinian state by September, making Canada the third G7 nation to take such a step in recent weeks. This announcement follows similar commitments from the United Kingdom and France amid escalating tensions in the region.

Carney emphasized that the recognition will hinge on the Palestinian Authority demonstrating democratic reforms, including the commitment to hold elections in 2026 without Hamas involvement. The announcement is set in the context of deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Gaza, the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, and the recent attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023.

“The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is appalling and worsening,” Carney remarked during a press briefing. “We believe our recognition can reinforce the push for peace in the region.” He plans to make the formal announcement during the upcoming UN General Assembly session.

Despite Canada's established stance in favor of a two-state solution, Carney admitted that this approach appears increasingly untenable, citing the eroding prospects for a viable Palestinian state as paramount in the decision-making process. He acknowledged discussions with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, stating that both parties share concerns over the governance structure in Palestinian territories.

Reactions to the announcement saw Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticizing the Canadian decision, alleging it hampers peace efforts and rewards terrorism. Opposition parties in Canada, particularly the Conservatives, voiced similar sentiments, asserting that such recognition risks misinforming the international community regarding recent violence.

The unfolding of these events coincides with a letter from nearly 200 former Canadian diplomats urging immediate recognition of a Palestinian state, framing the Israeli actions in the West Bank and Gaza as contrary to Canadian interests and values.

With the commitment to recognize a Palestinian state, Canada may align closer with its European allies, marking a shift in diplomatic relations that could challenge U.S. policy, as the United States remains a prominent supporter of Israel and has yet to recognize Palestinian statehood. As the situation develops, Carney reiterated that Canada is acting in its own national interest, striving to support international efforts toward peace and self-determination for the Palestinian people.