Canada is preparing to officially recognise Palestine as a state later this year, following similar announcements from France and the UK. Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed that Canada will back Palestine’s statehood at the UN General Assembly in September, but with certain conditions.
Carney explained that Canada’s support depends on the Palestinian Authority introducing democratic changes, including organising fresh elections next year. He made it clear that this must happen without Hamas’s involvement.
This decision marks a big change in Canada’s approach towards the region. Carney pointed to the growing number of Israeli settlements in the West Bank and the worsening situation in Gaza as reasons behind the policy shift. He described the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as “unbearable” and said the chance for a two-state solution is disappearing fast.
Many countries already support Palestine’s right to statehood, but Canada’s move makes it the third G7 country to step forward recently, putting extra pressure on Israel to reconsider its position. Israel’s government strongly rejected Canada’s plan, describing it as an unfair benefit for Hamas.
Carney stressed that Canada’s recognition plan would only move ahead if the Palestinian Authority promises to carry out governance reforms and ensures the area is free from armed groups.
He said Canada has always believed in a peaceful solution with two states living side by side but admitted that the old way of waiting for negotiations was no longer realistic.
Canada’s announcement comes after calls from former diplomats and mounting public demand to take a clear stand. Carney also confirmed he discussed the plan directly with Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas before going public.
As Canada prepares for this important step, it remains to be seen how it will shape talks about peace and stability in the region.
