Canada ‘intends’ to recognize Palestinian state, joining UK and France; Israel calls it a ‘distorted campaign’

Canada ‘intends’ to recognise Palestinian State

Following similar moves by the United Kingdom and France, Canada has announced it will officially recognize the State of Palestine this September during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney made the announcement on Wednesday, signaling a significant shift in Canada's foreign policy.

Carney described the decision as crucial to safeguarding the hopes of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict - a long-standing Canadian goal that was “being eroded before our eyes.”

“The deepening suffering of civilians leaves no room for delay in co-ordinated international action to support peace, security, and the dignity of all human life. Preserving a two-state solution means standing with all people who choose peace over violence or terrorism, and honouring their innate desire for the peaceful co-existence of Israeli and Palestinian states as the only roadmap for a secure and prosperous future,” Carney’s statement said.

“For these reasons, Canada intends to recognize the State of Palestine at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025,” it added.

The Israeli embassy in Ottawa said "recognizing a Palestinian state in the absence of accountable government, functioning institutions, or benevolent leadership, rewards and legitimizes the monstrous barbarity of Hamas on October 7, 2023."