Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced that Canada is prepared to acknowledge the state of Palestine in September, contingent upon specific commitments from the governing body in the West Bank. Carney emphasized that the Palestinian Authority must conduct an election by 2026 and undertake other democratic reforms to support the two-state solution.
During a press briefing, Carney articulated the importance of upholding peace and renouncing violence or terrorism for the co-existence of Israeli and Palestinian nations. He confirmed that Canada intends to formalize the recognition of Palestine at the upcoming UN General Assembly.
Following discussions with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Carney’s proposals have received support from Mona Abuamara, the former chief representative of the Palestinian General Delegation to Canada. Abuamara expressed confidence in fulfilling the outlined commitments, citing the Palestinian people’s aspiration for self-governance and state-building.
Carney specified that Hamas would not be involved in the suggested election and reiterated the necessity for Hamas to release Israeli captives while emphasizing the demilitarization of a Palestinian state. This announcement aligns with recent pledges from allied nations such as the UK and France, reflecting a collective effort to preserve the viability of a Palestinian state.
Israel has expressed opposition to Canada’s stance, asserting that the decision rewards Hamas and impedes ceasefire negotiations in Gaza. Notably, Canadian advocacy groups have raised concerns about escalating hunger in Gaza amidst stalled peace talks.
While facing criticism from the Conservative Party for allegedly legitimizing terrorism, Carney defended the decision as a step towards realizing a sustainable two-state solution. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand also pledged financial support for Palestinian institutional development, coinciding with international efforts to uphold the two-state solution.
Despite differing political perspectives within Canada’s political landscape, there is a growing chorus of voices calling for the immediate recognition of a Palestinian state. MPs across party lines have urged Canada to follow France’s lead and take proactive measures to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.