Canada to Declare Recognition of Palestine in September 2025

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that his country intends to officially recognize the state of Palestine during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly scheduled for September 2025, in a significant shift in Canadian policy towards the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

During a press conference held on Wednesday in Ottawa, Carney explained that this recognition comes as a "rescue for the two-state solution" which, according to him, faces the imminent danger of complete collapse. He stated, "The opportunity for the establishment of a Palestinian state is fading before our eyes," referring to the deteriorating situation on the ground, from widespread hunger in Gaza, to the rapid Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, and Israeli calls for annexation through a vote in the Knesset.

Carney emphasized that the recognition will be conditional on the Palestinian Authority committing to several reforms, including improving governance and holding general elections in 2026, with the condition that Hamas does not participate.

He also stressed the necessity for Palestinian factions to adhere to the political program of the Palestine Liberation Organization, including the principle of "one state, one law, and one legitimate weapon."

Carney strongly criticized the current Israeli government's policies, stating that Canada "condemns the conditions that are leading to a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza," and pointed out that "Hamas terrorism poses a broad threat to Israel," further complicating the situation.

On the Palestinian side, President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed the Canadian decision, considering it a "historic and courageous stance" that enhances the prospects for peace and stability in the region.

The official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported that Abbas received a phone call from Carney informing him of the anticipated decision, reaffirming his commitment to holding elections and upholding internationally agreed-upon principles.

On the Israeli side, the announcement was met with strong rejection from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, describing it as a "reward for Hamas," and warning that it undermines efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza and achieve a prisoner exchange deal.

Internationally, France praised the Canadian move, affirming that it aligns with French efforts to support peace in the Middle East.

The Elysee Palace stated, "We are pleased to work with Canada to revive the prospects for peace. We will continue to urge other countries to join this momentum," noting that French President Emmanuel Macron discussed the matter with Carney earlier on Wednesday.

These developments come after France and Britain announced their intentions to also recognize the state of Palestine during the upcoming General Assembly sessions, indicating a notable international shift in Western positions towards the Palestinian issue.