Ottawa is evaluating formal recognition of Palestine, following moves by the UK and France. Cabinet talks expected as Middle East tensions remain high.
Ottawa Weighs Diplomatic Recognition Amid Global Shift
The Canadian government is actively considering whether to formally recognize Palestinian statehood, a move that could align Canada with recent diplomatic shifts by the United Kingdom and France, according to a senior government source. The decision, still under discussion, may come with specific conditions tied to peace efforts in the Middle East.
Cabinet to Deliberate as International Pressure Mounts
Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to convene a virtual cabinet meeting Wednesday afternoon, where recognition of Palestine will be on the agenda. The move follows announcements from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, both indicating support for Palestinian statehood in advance of the UN General Assembly in September.
While France has offered unconditional support, the UK has set a deadline tied to a ceasefire in Gaza, humanitarian access, and progress toward a two-state solution. Canada is considering a position somewhere between the two, officials say.
Humanitarian Support Signals Policy Shift
In recent days, Ottawa committed $10 million toward supporting the Palestinian Authority’s preparations for statehood and $30 million in additional humanitarian aid for residents of Gaza. These steps suggest a growing Canadian investment in resolving the conflict, while still emphasizing a negotiated peace.
Prime Minister Carney recently reaffirmed Canada’s backing of a two-state solution, describing it as “a free and viable Palestine living in peace and security beside Israel.”
Diverging Views from Allies and Adversaries
Reactions to the UK’s and France’s decisions have been swift. U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Starmer’s proposal, warning it could “reward Hamas,” the Palestinian militant group currently in control of Gaza. Trump’s comments came after a meeting with Starmer in Scotland.
Meanwhile, Israel’s Foreign Ministry condemned the UK’s potential recognition, arguing that such a move would undermine efforts to reach a ceasefire and could embolden Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains firmly opposed to a Palestinian state, calling it a potential launchpad for attacks on Israel.
Conditions at the Heart of Canada’s Debate
According to sources, Canada is unlikely to move forward with recognition without key conditions. These may include a ceasefire in Gaza, assurances of non-aggression from Hamas, and international oversight of aid delivery. Canadian officials are also evaluating whether recognition would enhance or hinder peace efforts in a region still reeling from years of conflict.
More than 140 countries currently recognize Palestine, but none from the G7 have made such a move—yet. If Canada proceeds, it would follow France and potentially the UK as the first G7 nations to recognize Palestinian statehood.
Recognition Could Be Symbolic, But Powerful
Diplomatic experts note that any recognition at this stage would be largely symbolic, without immediate territorial or governance implications. However, the gesture could carry weight at the United Nations and influence global efforts to revive peace talks.
With hostilities ongoing and humanitarian conditions worsening in Gaza, Canada’s pending decision is being watched closely both domestically and abroad. For now, Ottawa appears poised to balance support for Palestinian self-determination with commitments to Israel’s security and regional peace.
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