Prime Minister Mark Carney vows to recognize Palestine in September under strict conditions — igniting furious backlash from Israel, Donald Trump, and Jewish leaders worldwide.
OTTAWA — In a move sending shockwaves through international diplomacy, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Wednesday that Canada intends to recognize the “State of Palestine” in September — but only if the Palestinian Authority meets a strict list of governance and security benchmarks.
Speaking to reporters, Carney said recognition would be contingent upon the PA:
- Holding democratic elections in 2026
- Completing full demilitarization
- Excluding Hamas from any future governing coalition
Hamas, which controls Gaza, remains classified as a terrorist organization by Canada and all major Western allies.
Canada Aligns with Europe
If carried out, Canada would join France and the United Kingdom as the only G7 nations to formally outline a pathway toward Palestinian statehood recognition. The move comes as 26 countries, including Canada, recently signed a joint statement demanding an immediate end to the Gaza war and accusing Israel of imposing “unacceptable restrictions” on humanitarian aid.
Israel Condemns the Move
In a blunt statement, Israel’s Foreign Ministry blasted Carney’s decision as “a reward for Hamas”, warning it undermines current ceasefire and hostage-release negotiations.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unleashed a direct rebuke:
“Canada has always sided with civilization. So should Mr. Carney. Instead of supporting Israel — a democracy fighting a just war against the barbarians of Hamas — he attacks the one and only Jewish state. Mr. Carney, backtrack your irresponsible statement!”
Trump Threatens Trade War
US President Donald Trump wasted no time threatening retaliation:
“Wow! Canada has just announced that it is backing statehood for Palestine. That will make it very hard for us to make a Trade Deal with them. Oh’ Canada!!!”
Critics: ‘Reward for Terror’
Former US ambassador to Israel David Friedman accused Carney of appeasing Islamist extremists:
“If Palestinians went to the polls today they would elect Hamas! This so-called state has no defined borders, no viable economy, and no proven leadership. Recognizing it rewards terror and endangers the Jewish state.”
Friedman warned that history has not been kind to nations that betray the Jewish people:
“Appeasing antisemitic radical Islamists is a sure path to ruin — and these three once-great nations are heading off a cliff.”
Carney’s Campaign Controversy
The announcement follows a campaign trail incident in which Carney was confronted by a protester claiming a “genocide” was taking place in Palestine. Carney replied: “Thank you… I’m aware. Which is why we have an arms embargo.” He later walked back the remark, insisting he had not heard the word “genocide” clearly.
With Israel, Trump, and Jewish leaders aligned in fierce opposition, Carney’s pledge has catapulted Canada into the center of a high-stakes geopolitical battle — one that could reshape Ottawa’s alliances and foreign policy for years to come.
