Canada has officially acknowledged the state of Palestine, in cooperation with global partners, to uphold the potential of a two-state solution, as stated by Prime Minister Mark Carney’s office on Sunday. The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) mentioned that Canada’s long-standing commitment to a two-state solution was based on the belief that this resolution would eventually be reached through negotiations. However, recent events such as the Hamas-led attack on Israel, the Israeli parliament’s endorsement of annexing the West Bank, and Israeli government limitations on humanitarian aid have significantly weakened this possibility.
The PMO criticized Hamas for causing suffering to the people of Israel and Gaza, emphasizing that Hamas cannot determine the future of the Palestinian people. The current Israeli government’s efforts to obstruct the establishment of a Palestinian state were also highlighted. Canada expressed its willingness to assist both Palestine and Israel in fostering a peaceful future.
The decision coincides with Carney’s upcoming meetings with world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Australia, the United Kingdom, and Portugal have also declared their recognition of the state of Palestine. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer highlighted the importance of preserving the chance for peace and a two-state solution.
French President Emmanuel Macron indicated that France would formally announce its recognition of Palestine the following day. Carney had initially announced Canada’s intent to recognize Palestine in July, conditional upon specific commitments from the Palestinian Authority. The PMO affirmed that Canada would intensify its support for the Palestinian Authority’s reform agenda.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the recognition, attributing it to Carney’s attempt to divert attention from other issues. He emphasized the Conservative Party’s support for Israel’s right to coexist peacefully with a demilitarized, democratic Palestinian state. Hamas welcomed the recognition by Canada, the UK, and Australia, viewing it as a step towards safeguarding Palestinian rights and independence.
Canada’s UN ambassador, Bob Rae, defended the recognition as a necessary step for peace, refuting claims that it would empower Hamas. The Israeli Embassy in Canada expressed disappointment, citing concerns about the recognition’s implications on peace efforts. Palestinian advocate James Kafieh viewed the acknowledgment positively, urging Canada to take further actions to protect Palestine.
