Journalism of Courage
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said on Sunday that Canada now recognises the State of Palestine.
“Canada recognises the State of Palestine and offers our partnership in building the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel,” Carney said in a statement carried by Reuters.
He said recognition was aimed at strengthening those seeking peace. “Recognising the State of Palestine, led by the Palestinian Authority, empowers those who seek peaceful coexistence and the end of Hamas. This in no way legitimises terrorism, nor is it any reward for it,” Carney said.
Carney added that the Palestinian Authority had given Canada “direct commitments” to reform governance, to hold general elections in 2026 in which Hamas “can play no part,” and to demilitarise the Palestinian state.
More than 140 United Nations members already recognise a Palestinian state, but Canada’s move marks a change from its earlier position, taken despite strong opposition from Israel.
