Canada to officially recognize Palestinian state in September.
Canada’s decision to recognize the Palestinian state in September follows similar announcements made by the United Kingdom and France earlier this year. The coordinated diplomatic shift marks a significant moment in international relations and signals growing global support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Canadian officials stated that the move reflects their commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. The recognition is expected to impact future negotiations and influence other Western nations to reconsider their positions.
In a historic policy shift, Canada will officially recognise the State of Palestine during the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025. Prime Minister Mark Carney made the landmark announcement on Wednesday, July 30, calling the decision both “necessary and overdue” in light of recent developments in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The move is part of a broader diplomatic initiative aimed at rallying international support for a reimagined two-state framework. Carney described it as a turning point in Canada’s foreign policy and a clear message that Ottawa will no longer sit idly by as hopes for peace in the region continue to erode.
In a detailed statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Carney outlined Canada’s motivations, pointing to ongoing Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, the deepening humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, and the enduring threat posed by Hamas. He said these factors have critically undermined the possibility of a peaceful resolution based on mutual recognition.
“The prospect of a just and lasting peace has been steadily eroded,” Carney wrote. “Canada cannot remain on the sidelines.
Conditional Recognition and Demands for ReformCanada’s recognition, however, will not be unconditional.
He further demanded the immediate release of hostages taken by Hamas during its October 7, 2023, attack and called on the militant group to fully disarm. “Peace cannot be achieved through violence,” Carney said.
This includes USD 30 million in new funding for emergency relief in Gaza and USD 10 million to support governance and institution-building in the West Bank. Ottawa is also working closely with its allies to design a roadmap for peace based on mutual recognition, shared security guarantees, and long-term cooperation.
“Standing for a two-state solution means supporting diplomacy over destruction,” Carney said. “Canada will continue working with international partners to build a peaceful future for Palestinians and Israelis alike—one based on justice, sovereignty, and mutual respect.”
Canada’s announcement was met with immediate and strong criticism from both Israel and the United States.
In Washington, the response was similarly critical. A senior White House official, quoted by Reuters, stated that President Trump considers Canada’s recognition of Palestine a misstep that could embolden militant groups and complicate peace efforts.
A Growing International ShiftDespite the backlash, Canada’s decision comes amid growing global support for Palestinian statehood. On Tuesday, July 29, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned that the UK would move forward with recognition unless Israel allows humanitarian access to Gaza, recommits to the two-state.
The same day, Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela voiced support for Palestinian recognition during the upcoming UN session. Then, on July 30, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot confirmed that France—along with 14 other countries, including Australia and Canada—had formally called for broader international recognition of Palestine.
A week earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France would officially recognise Palestine at the UN in September, describing it as “a matter of justice and responsibility.”
However, several influential nations—including the United States, Germany, Italy, Australia, Japan, and South Korea—have yet to extend full diplomatic recognition.
Canada’s decision may now increase pressure on those governments to reevaluate their positions.
As the world watches what promises to be a pivotal moment at the UN this September, one thing is clear: the international conversation around Palestinian statehood has entered a new and urgent phase.