PM Carney Confirms Canada’s September Recognition of Palestinian State

In a move that has ignited international controversy, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada intends to formally recognize a Palestinian state this September during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The declaration has provoked sharp criticism from Israel and concern from allies, as it comes amidst ongoing war in Gaza and unresolved hostage crises.

Carney clarified that Canada's recognition hinges on the Palestinian Authority’s commitment to significant reforms. These include the demilitarization of the proposed state, exclusion of Hamas from any political role, and democratic elections scheduled for 2026. “Canada will increase its efforts in supporting strong, democratic governance in Palestine and the contributions of its people to a more peaceful and hopeful future,” Carney stated.

Despite affirming Canada’s enduring support for Israel’s right to exist in peace and security, Carney emphasized that a viable Palestinian state is essential for lasting peace in the region. He also demanded that Hamas release all hostages and disarm immediately.

The Israeli government swiftly rejected the proposal. “The change in the position of the Canadian government at this time is a reward for Hamas and harms the efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and a framework for the release of the hostages,” said Israel’s Foreign Ministry.

Voicing even stronger condemnation, Jeremy Levi, mayor of Hampstead, Quebec, declared, “Mark Carney has made his choice clear reward terror with statehood.” Levi insisted that in the wake of Hamas’ atrocities on October 7, Israel has full moral and strategic justification to annex all of Gaza. “You don’t negotiate with those who celebrated the massacre of civilians,” he said. “You confront it with unshakable resolve.”

The United States also responded sharply. Former President Donald Trump warned that Canada's decision could jeopardize trade relations between the two nations. “That will make it very hard for us to make a trade deal with them,” he said. A senior White House official underscored that recognizing Palestinian statehood at this stage would amount to rewarding terrorism.

Canada’s announcement follows similar declarations by France, the United Kingdom, and Malta. French President Emmanuel Macron recently confirmed his country’s intention to recognize Palestine, stating the need to bring the war in Gaza to a close and provide humanitarian aid. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer added pressure by threatening recognition if Israel does not take immediate steps to end the violence and halt any plans for annexation in the West Bank.

As global leaders weigh in, Israel remains clear: now is not the time for premature recognition. Any political shift that sidelines Israeli security and ignores the reality of terror risks further destabilizing the region.

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