Canada’s choice to join the United Kingdom, France, and other allies in acknowledging the statehood of Palestine was cautiously welcomed in Gaza on Thursday, while Israel criticized the decision, citing concerns about Hamas and terrorism rewards. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s announcement that Canada would recognize a Palestinian state at the upcoming UN General Assembly session in September signifies a shift in Canadian foreign policy, historically in support of a two-state solution. Carney specified that Canada’s recognition is contingent upon the Palestinian Authority implementing substantial reforms and conducting elections in the coming year.
The response to Carney’s decision was divided, with many Israelis condemning it while it was embraced in Gaza, albeit with some reservations. Nasr Sadr expressed appreciation for Canada’s recognition but felt it was belated given the past hardships endured by Palestinians. However, Sadr questioned the tangible impact of this symbolic gesture, especially regarding Carney’s requirement for free and fair elections in Gaza next year.
In contrast, Ahmed Halas expressed hope that Canada’s action would catalyze further support and aid for Gaza’s reconstruction, emphasizing the need for a change in the current harsh living conditions. He adamantly rejected any notion of displacing Palestinians as a precondition for ending the conflict, advocating for a peaceful coexistence on their ancestral lands.
While the governments of Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Qatar, along with Canadian advocates for Palestinians, lauded Canada’s move, the Israeli government condemned it, citing concerns about Hamas and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Canadian Jewish organizations echoed these sentiments, cautioning that the recognition of Palestine could disrupt ceasefire negotiations and potentially escalate violence.
Amid the varied responses, Ahmed Kurdiya expressed gratitude towards Canada, viewing the recognition of a Palestinian state as a rightful acknowledgment for the Palestinian people. He emphasized the importance of concrete steps to support Palestine’s statehood, particularly in Gaza and the West Bank, with East Jerusalem as its capital, stressing the necessity of free elections to disavow Hamas’s influence.
Israel’s ambassador to Canada, Iddo Moed, contested the efficacy of Canada’s decision, questioning the leadership in Palestine and the absence of democratic processes. He contended that the move might not bring substantial change on the ground and criticized the prolonged tenure of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas without elections or significant backing.
The ongoing conflict’s origins were revisited, with Hamas’s initial attack in 2023 triggering a series of violent events resulting in casualties on both sides. The aftermath of the conflict, including the hostage situation and casualties, underscored the complex and volatile nature of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Overall, the recognition of Palestine by Canada elicited a range of responses, reflecting the deep-rooted complexities and challenges in the region that continue to shape diplomatic relations and peace efforts.