Canada’s decision marks a historic policy shift, joining European allies in recognizing Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly. Prime Minister Mark Carney said the recognition hinges on the Palestinian Authority holding democratic elections, excluding Hamas from governance, and demilitarizing. The announcement reflects mounting condemnation of Israel's actions in Gaza, where starvation and humanitarian collapse are escalating.

A Conditional Recognition

Prime Minister Mark Carney declared that Canada would formally recognize a Palestinian state during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September. The move, he emphasized, depends on the Palestinian Authority meeting several conditions: holding elections in 2026 (the first since 2006), excluding Hamas from both elections and any future government, and pursuing the demilitarization of Palestine.

Carney confirmed these commitments were conveyed during a recent phone call with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

“The deepening suffering of civilians leaves no room for delaying coordinated international action to support peace, security and the dignity of human life,” Carney stated following a cabinet meeting centered on Gaza.

Canada’s announcement follows similar policy reversals by France and Britain. The leaders of all three nations have condemned the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, blaming Israel for obstructing aid access. Gaza’s health authorities report dozens of recent deaths from starvation, including children.

Carney and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer held discussions earlier this week about Gaza’s humanitarian collapse and their shared views on Palestinian statehood.

Before Carney’s announcement, Canada’s foreign affairs department joined 14 other countries—including France, Ireland, and Australia—in urging global recognition or “positive consideration” of Palestine’s statehood before the September U.N. meeting.

Backlash from Israel

The Israeli government strongly opposed Canada’s move. Ambassador Iddo Moed told CBC:

“It is rewarding terrorists… we will not give in to that pressure because this is our security.”

Despite these objections, Carney said the status quo was no longer viable.

“Regrettably, this approach [of waiting for a negotiated settlement] is no longer tenable,” he remarked.

Financial Support and International Cooperation

Foreign Minister Anita Anand pledged 10 million Canadian dollars (approx. $7.2 million USD) to help the Palestinian Authority build the framework for statehood and an additional 30 million CAD in humanitarian aid. Canada is also working with Jordan and other regional actors to coordinate assistance delivery.

The announcement comes at a diplomatically sensitive time. Canada is in critical trade talks with the Trump administration; a breakdown in negotiations could result in punitive tariffs by Friday. Domestically, the move could deepen political divides. The Conservative Party ran on a pro-Israel platform during the last election and vowed to crack down on pro-Palestine demonstrators.

Even within Carney’s Liberal Party, members are split between longstanding Israel supporters and those pushing for a more assertive stance on Palestinian statehood.