Canada has announced its intention to recognize a Palestinian state at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025. The decision comes amid the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized that the recognition is predicated on promises of reform from the Palestinian Authority and President Mahmoud Abbas, as well as a commitment to hold general elections in 2026.

Carney stressed that Hamas can play no role in the future of Palestine and would not be allowed to take part in future elections. “Preserving a two-state solution means standing with all people who choose peace over violence or terrorism,” Carney said. The recognition is seen as a significant step towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict, but its impact on the ongoing war in Gaza and the expansion of illegal settlements in the West Bank remains unclear.

The move follows similar announcements by the United Kingdom and France earlier this month. However, the United States, Israel’s top ally, has rejected moves to recognize a Palestinian state, saying that the policy rewards Hamas. US President Donald Trump dismissed his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, when the latter announced plans to acknowledge Palestine, saying “What he says doesn’t matter. It’s not going to change anything.”

A coalition of advocacy groups has released a report based on Israeli tax records, revealing new details indicating that weapons have continued to be sent to Israel despite Canada’s announcement to stop issuing new permits for weapons exports. The groups accused the Canadian government of constructing a “web of lies” to shield itself from criticism and called on Ottawa to cancel all existing arms export permits to Israel.

The Israeli military has killed more than 60,000 Palestinians in Gaza and flattened most of the territory since the start of the war in 2023. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has sparked international concern, with many calling for an end to the violence and a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The National Council of Canadian Muslims welcomed Carney’s announcement but called on Canada to take other practical steps to stop Israel’s assault on Gaza.

The recognition of a Palestinian state by Canada and other Western countries may put pressure on Israel to reconsider its stance on the conflict. However, the impact of this move remains to be seen, and the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. As the international community works towards a peaceful resolution, it is essential to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and promote a two-state solution that ensures the rights and dignity of both Israelis and Palestinians.