Canada becomes third G7 nation to announce it will recognise Palestine at UN conference

In that vein, it condemned Hamas for its “heinous terrorist attack” on October 7 2023, but also criticised Israel for the expansion of settlements in the West Bank.

However, the statement also sought to assure Jerusalem, adding: “Canada will always steadfastly support Israel’s existence as an independent state in the Middle East living in peace and security.

"Any path to lasting peace for Israel also requires a viable and stable Palestinian state, and one that recognises Israel’s inalienable right to security and peace.”

And its requirements of the PA to confirm the move include significant governance reforms, a commitment to hold elections in 2026 “in which Hamas can play no part” and an assurance that any future state would be demilitarised.
Israel, though, has condemned Carney's announcement, calling it "a reward for Hamas”.

A Foreign Ministry spokesperson said: “This change in the Canadian government’s position at this time is a reward for Hamas and harms the efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and a framework for the release of the hostages.”

Likewise, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, which represents Canada’s Jewish Federations, said: “[This announcement] is predicated on misplaced faith in vague commitments by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, notorious for his corruption, lack of democratic credibility, and funding of terrorists.

"It is deeply concerning that the government did not link statehood recognition to the removal of Hamas and the return of Israeli hostages. This only emboldens Hamas and condemns Palestinians and Israelis – including the hostages and their families – to more suffering.

"Our community seeks an end to this painful conflict and a better future where Israelis and Palestinians can coexist in peace. This requires a Palestinian state to be Zionist – affirming the right of a democratic, Jewish state to exist in safety.

"Pre-emptive recognition of a Palestinian state undermines this core principle.”

Meanwhile, in addition to France, the UK and Canada, Malta has also confirmed it will push forward with recognition in time for the UN meeting.

And, while not committing to a specific timeframe, Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers has said its own recognition announcement is "a matter of when, not if".

However, one nation which appears set against recognition is the US, with President Trump previously saying he "disagrees" with the UK and France.

In the case of Canada, he went further, seemingly suggesting that the move could disrupt trade talks between the neighbours.

"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," he wrote in a Truth Social post.