Canada, Australia Recognise Palestinian State Amid US Opposition
Moves signal support for two-state solution as other nations prepare similar recognition
Canada and Australia formally recognised a Palestinian state on Sunday, a move aimed at supporting a two-state solution despite strong opposition from the United States and anger from Israel.
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Canada’s recognition on social platform X, reiterating his July statement amid growing frustration among Western nations over the intensifying conflict in Gaza. “We hope this paves the way for peace based on two states living side by side,” Carney said.
Australia also confirmed it had formally recognised Palestinian statehood, joining a wave of countries preparing similar steps ahead of the UN General Assembly this week. France and other nations are expected to follow, with the UK and Portugal likely to announce recognition later Sunday.
The US and Israel criticised the move, arguing that it emboldens extremists and rewards Hamas, the group behind the October 7, 2023, attacks in southern Israel that triggered the ongoing conflict.
The recognitions come as international pressure grows for a resolution to the intensifying war in Gaza, with Western nations increasingly advocating for renewed diplomatic engagement to achieve lasting peace.
