OTTAWA – Canada has unveiled plans to formally recognise the State of Palestine at the forthcoming UN General Assembly in September 2025, joining the United Kingdom and France in this significant diplomatic shift. The announcement by Prime Minister Mark Carney comes amid growing international concern about the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza and the erosion of prospects for a two-state solution.
Carney emphasized that Canada’s decision is “predicated” on the Palestinian Authority’s commitment to meaningful reforms, including holding general elections in 2026 that exclude Hamas and establishing a demilitarized Palestinian state. He underlined that the worsening civilian suffering in Gaza left “no room for delay in coordinated international action” to sustain peace, security, and human dignity.
Israel swiftly rejected the move, denouncing it as a “reward for Hamas” that undermines ceasefire efforts and hostage negotiations. The Israeli Foreign Ministry warned that the announcement damages trust and threatens long-standing relations with Canada.
Similarly, the United States voiced strong opposition. President Trump suggested recognition would jeopardize a potential trade deal with Canada, reinforcing a broader alignment with Israel’s stance.
This wave of recognition by Canada, France, and the UK signals mounting Western pressure on Israel to de-escalate military actions in Gaza and revive a viable path toward a peace-based two-state solution.
Sources: Reuters, Al Jazeera, Canadian Prime Minister’s Office, Associated Press, Washington Post
