Canada will formally recognize the State of Palestine at the U.N. General Assembly in September, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced, citing the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This aligns Canada with France and the U.K., who have signaled similar moves unless fighting stops.
Carney said starvation in Gaza was erasing prospects for Palestinian statehood and condemned Israel for allowing the situation to deteriorate. Recognition, he added, followed assurances from the Palestinian Authority of planned governance reforms and 2026 elections excluding Hamas.
Canada has long been committed to a two-state solution — an independent, viable, and sovereign Palestinian state living side by side with the State of Israel in peace and security.
The move reflects growing international frustration with Israel’s blockade of Gaza and its war with Hamas. A hunger monitor warned of an unfolding famine, with Gaza’s health ministry reporting new hunger-related deaths, including children. Dozens were killed Wednesday while trying to access U.N. aid.
Israel and the U.S. rejected Canada’s decision. Israel’s foreign ministry said it rewarded Hamas and undermined ceasefire efforts. U.S. officials echoed the criticism, with envoy Steve Witkoff heading to Israel to discuss aid logistics.
Since 2012, Palestine has held non-member observer status at the U.N., recognized by over 75% of member states. Critics say Canada’s move is largely symbolic and could strain ties with Israel. France and the U.K. argue recognition could revive peace efforts.
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Meanwhile, Israeli ministers have floated annexing parts of Gaza. Mediation for a ceasefire and hostage release remains stalled. Families of Israeli hostages oppose recognition without returns.
Israel’s October 7 war response has killed over 60,000 people, per Gaza officials. Israel, citing Hamas’s initial attacks, insists security control must remain under its command. Far-right members of Netanyahu’s cabinet continue to push for full annexation of Palestinian land.
Despite some aid trucks reaching Gaza under temporary military pauses, the U.N. says current volumes are insufficient. The Gaza health ministry reports at least 154 starvation deaths since the war began, most recently including a 2-year-old girl unable to access needed milk.
