Prime Minister Carney Announces Canada’s Recognition of the State of Palestine

Ottawa emphasizes two-state solution as cornerstone for peace in the Middle East

Ottawa, Ontario — Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced that Canada will formally recognize the State of Palestine, marking a historic shift in Canadian foreign policy. The decision is part of a coordinated international effort to preserve the possibility of a two-state solution — long viewed as the foundation for peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

A two-state vision under threat

Since 1947, Canadian governments have supported the creation of two sovereign states — Israel and Palestine — living side by side in peace and security. However, Carney noted that recent developments have “steadily and gravely eroded” the viability of that outcome.

Among the challenges cited were:

• The ongoing threat of Hamas terrorism, including the October 7, 2023 attack against Israel.

• Accelerated settlement construction across the West Bank and East Jerusalem, combined with rising settler violence.

• Israeli government actions such as the E1 Settlement Plan and a Knesset vote calling for annexation of the West Bank.

• The humanitarian crisis in Gaza, worsened by restrictions on aid and essential supplies.

Carney stated that Hamas must release hostages, disarm fully, and play no role in Palestine’s future governance, underscoring that recognition of Palestine does not legitimize terrorism.

Today, Canada recognises the State of Palestine. pic.twitter.com/zhumVJRBfe

— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) September 21, 2025

Canada’s recognition

“Canada recognises the State of Palestine and offers our partnership in building the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel,” Carney said in his statement. “This recognition is firmly aligned with the principles of self-determination and fundamental human rights reflected in the United Nations Charter, and the consistent policy of Canada for generations.”

Conditions and commitments

Canada’s recognition is tied to reforms led by the Palestinian Authority (PA), which has pledged to:

• Fundamentally reform governance structures.

• Hold general elections in 2026 without Hamas participation.

• Commit to the demilitarization of the Palestinian state.

Carney said Canada, alongside international partners, will intensify support for these reforms while facilitating humanitarian aid into Gaza and working toward a credible peace plan with clear security arrangements.

Support for Israel

The Prime Minister emphasized that Canada’s recognition of Palestine does not compromise its support for Israel. Instead, he stressed that Israel’s long-term security can only be guaranteed through a comprehensive two-state solution.

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