In a historic policy shift, Canada has announced its intention to officially recognize a Palestinian state during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly session in September 2025. Prime Minister Mark Carney made the declaration during a press conference in Ottawa on Wednesday, July 30, marking a significant departure from Canada’s long-standing position that recognition would only follow a negotiated peace agreement with Israel.
Speaking to reporters, Carney emphasized that this move is aimed at preserving the viability of a two-state solution amid an increasingly volatile situation in the Middle East. “Canada is committed to peace and justice,” he stated, adding that the recognition would be contingent upon meaningful reform efforts by the Palestinian Authority.
According to Carney, the recognition is not unconditional. The Palestinian Authority must demonstrate clear commitment to democratic reforms, including overhauling its governance structures and ensuring transparent general elections in 2026. Notably, he insisted that the militant group Hamas must be excluded from these elections. “A lasting peace requires legitimate representation and the complete exclusion of terrorist entities,” Carney stressed.
This announcement comes amid growing international frustration over the stalled Israeli-Palestinian peace process and increasing calls for renewed diplomatic efforts to resolve the decades-long conflict.
While the move is expected to be welcomed by many nations advocating for Palestinian statehood, it could also strain Canada’s traditionally strong relations with Israel and its allies. Diplomatic observers are watching closely to see how this decision will influence Canada’s role on the global stage.
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