Canada to Recognize Palestinian State in September

Canada Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada will recognize a Palestinian state in September, the latest in a series of symbolic announcements that are part of a broader global shift against Israel's policies in Gaza. The decision came after he discussed the crisis with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer who also announced a similar move on Tuesday.

Carney said: “The level of human suffering in Gaza is intolerable.” He also added: “Canada intends to recognize the State of Palestine at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025," predicated on the Palestinian Authority "holding general elections in 2026 in which Hamas can play no part, and to demilitarize the Palestinian state."

Carney emphasized that Canada has joined efforts with other states to “preserve the possibility of a two-state solution." He noted: “Much has to happen before a democratic viable state is established.”

The move comes as pressure mounts for countries to formally recognize Palestinian statehood, following French President Emmanuel Macron's announcement last week that France will become the first major Western power to recognize a Palestinian state in September.

On Tuesday, Starmer said Britain would recognize a state of Palestine before the U.N. General Assembly in September, “unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, agree to a ceasefire and commit to a long-term, sustainable peace, reviving the prospect of a two-state solution."

Israel's foreign ministry later rejected the British statement.

Iddo Moed, Israel's ambassador to Canada, said: “We will not sacrifice our very existence by permitting the imposition of a jihadist state on our ancestral homeland that seeks our annihilation.”

Mohammed, I am not sure if there is any starvation in Gaza.