Canada formally recognizes the Palestinian state at the upcoming meeting of the UN General Assembly in September, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Wednesday, which means a dramatic shift in policy from the country’s previous attitude.
Carney described the decision as essential for the protection of two-sided solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict-long-and-free Canadian goal, which was “disrupted in front of our eyes”. This comes after France and the United Kingdom have recently made a similar announcement.
“Canada intends to recognize the state of Palestines at the 80s. The UN General Assembly in September 2025,” the Prime Minister said.
The announcement met with the immediate rejection of Israel and stated that the notification of Canada within the “distorted international pressure campaign”. Meanwhile Donald Trump said “Notice could have an impact on the business agreement between the US and Canada”
What did Carney say?
Asked by reporters if there was a scenario, when Canada could change its position before the UN meeting, Carney said, “There is a scenario (but) maybe the one I can’t imagine.”
The intention of Canada “is based on the Palestinian authority’s commitment to the much needed reforms,” Carney said, referring to the government body led by President Mahmud Abbas, who has civic authority in parts of the Israeli West Bank.
Carney also said that it was also based on Abbas’ promise to “organize general elections in 2026, in which Hamas cannot play any role, and demilitarize the Palestinian state”.
Carney stressed that Canada was an unwavering member of a group of nations hoping that the solution of two states “would be achieved in a peaceful process based on a negotiated settlement between the Israeli government and the Palestinian authority”.
“Unfortunately, this approach is no longer sustainable,” he said, quoting “Hamas terrorism” and “long -term violent rejection of Israel’s right to existence”.
The peace process was also disrupted by the expansion of Israeli settlements on the occupied West Bank and on the eastern Jerusalem, Carney said.
What did Israel say?
The Israeli Embassy in Ottawa said: “Recognition of the Palestinian State in the absence of a responsible government, functioning institutions or benevolent leadership, reward and legitimizing monstrous barbarism of Hamas 7 October 2023.”
What did Trump said?
Trump responded to development and stated that this could have an impact on the business agreement between the US and Canada
He published on Truth Social: “Lords!
Abbas welcomed this announcement as a “historical” decision, while France said the countries would cooperate “to revive the prospect of peace in the region”.
(Tagstotranslate) Canada
