ISTANBUL

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Sunday announced that his country officially recognized the state of Palestine, pledging partnership to build peace between Palestine and Israel.

"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 wrote on the US social media company X ahead of the UN General Assembly.

Carney said Canada's recognition comes "as part of a co-ordinated international effort to preserve the possibility of a two-state solution."

"Since 1947, it has been the policy of every Canadian government to support a two-state solution for lasting peace in the Middle East," he said.

Carney said it is "imperative" that Hamas "release all hostages, fully disarm, and play no role in the future governance of Palestine."

He also criticized Israeli actions, saying the current Israeli government is "working methodically to prevent the prospect of a Palestinian state."

"It has pursued an unrelenting policy of settlement expansion in the West Bank, which is illegal under international law," Carney said while underlining Israel's continuing attacks in Gaza.

“With our international partners, Canada supports the development of a credible peace plan, democratic governance and clear security arrangements for Palestine, and the sustained, large-scale delivery of humanitarian aid into and throughout Gaza," he said.

At least 65,283 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s genocidal war on the Gaza Strip since October 2023, the enclave’s Health Ministry said on Sunday.

The announcement follows Canada's earlier declaration of intent to recognize Palestine during the 80th UN General Assembly session in September 2025.

The UN General Assembly in New York starts on Tuesday and lasts through Sept. 29.

Canada previously said it "recognizes the Palestinian right to self-determination and supports the creation of a sovereign, independent, viable, democratic, and territorially contiguous Palestinian state."

Australia and the UK also announced formal recognition of Palestine on Sunday.

Previously, France, Luxembourg, and Malta announced similar plans to recognize Palestine at the UN General Assembly.