On September 21, the Canadian government announced that it would recognize the state of Palestine, becoming the first G7 country, along with the UK, to do so.
Prime Minister Mark Carney stated, “Since 1947, every Canadian administration has maintained a policy of supporting a two-state solution for lasting peace in the Middle East,” and aimed to build a future in peace and security for a viable Palestinian state alongside the State of Israel. However, he expressed concern that the two-state solution is becoming difficult due to factors such as “the widespread terrorist threat posed by Hamas to Israel and its people,” “the rapid expansion of settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem and the escalation of settler violence against Palestinians,” “the Israeli parliament’s vote this year to annex the West Bank,” and “the Israeli government’s involvement in the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.”
Canada has stated that it recognizes the State of Palestine and is committed to working with the State of Israel to build the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel. While Canada does not believe recognition is a panacea, it emphasizes that it is “firmly in line with the principles of self-determination and fundamental human rights as enshrined in the UN Charter, and with Canada’s consistent policy over many years.”
“The Palestinian Authority has made direct commitments to Canada and the international community regarding essential reforms, including fundamental reforms to governance, holding general elections in 2026 without Hamas’ involvement, and a demilitarized Palestinian state. Canada will intensify its efforts to support the implementation of this reform plan, which is already making progress, and will work with international partners to support the establishment of a credible peace plan, democratic governance, a clear security architecture, and the delivery of sustained, substantial humanitarian assistance to Gaza,” the statement concluded.
Prime Minister Carney reiterated his support for the recognition of the state of Palestine at the 80th United Nations General Assembly held this year. On July 30, the Prime Minister announced that the Canadian government intended to formally recognize Palestine as a state at the UN General Assembly in September.