Canada to Recognize Palestinian State, Drawing Criticism and Adding Pressure on Israel

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Wednesday that Canada plans to recognize a Palestinian state in September during a United Nations meeting. He stated that Canada is working with others to preserve the possibility of a two-state solution, aiming to prevent the situation on the ground from deteriorating to the point where such a solution becomes impossible.

Carney clarified that this move is contingent upon the Palestinian Authority's commitment to reforms, including governance improvements and the holding of general elections next year, with Hamas excluded from participation.

Israel has criticized Canada's position, viewing it as a reward for Hamas that undermines efforts to achieve a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages held by the group following its October 7, 2023, attack. The Israeli Foreign Ministry issued a statement rejecting the Canadian Prime Minister's announcement.

Canada's announcement followed France's recent declaration of its intention to recognize a Palestinian state and Britain's similar stance, contingent on the cessation of the Israel-Hamas war. French President Emmanuel Macron, who spoke with Carney before the announcement, believes that recognizing a Palestinian state will help revive prospects for peace in the region.

These announcements by some of Israel's allies reflect growing international concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, adding pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government. Carney stated that Canada condemns the Israeli government's handling of the situation in Gaza.

The White House opposes the decision to recognize a Palestinian state, with President Donald Trump agreeing with Israel that it would reward Hamas. A White House official stated that President Trump's focus is on providing aid to the people in Gaza. Trump also expressed concerns about the impact of Canada's decision on trade relations.

The U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East is scheduled to travel to Israel to discuss the situation in Gaza. The Palestinian government has been a non-member observer state of the U.N. General Assembly since 2012, recognized by a majority of the assembly's member states.

The war in Gaza began with Hamas' October 7, 2023, attack against Israel, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and the abduction of 251 people. Israel responded with an ongoing military offensive in the Gaza Strip, which has resulted in over 60,000 deaths, according to the Hamas-run government's Gaza health ministry.