Canada is set to recognize a Palestinian state in September, following a Cabinet meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The move comes amid mounting pressure over the human suffering in Gaza, which has horrified many worldwide. Carney announced that Canada intends to recognize the State of Palestine at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025, predicated on the Palestinian Authority holding general elections in 2026 in which Hamas can play no part and to demilitarize the Palestinian state.
Pressure to formally recognize Palestinian statehood has increased since French President Emmanuel Macron announced last week that his country will become the first major Western power to recognize a Palestinian state in September. Carney said that Canada is working with other states to preserve the possibility of a two-state solution, and that Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government rejects a two-state solution on nationalistic and security grounds.
Canada has long supported the idea of an independent Palestinian state existing alongside Israel, but has said recognition should come as part of a negotiated two-state solution to the conflict. Israel’s ambassador to Canada, Iddo Moed, said that Canada is an “estranged friend” because it stopped putting itself in Israel’s shoes and that there is no understanding of the suffering of hostages held by Gaza’s militant Hamas group.
