Canada will formally recognize the State of Palestine at September’s UN General Assembly, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced, escalating international pressure on Israel as starvation grips Gaza. The decision follows France’s recognition last week and Britain’s conditional pledge to do the same if Gaza’s war persists. Carney condemned Israel’s blockade, stating the humanitarian crisis has made Palestinian statehood “recede before our eyes.” The move reflects mounting global frustration over aid restrictions and famine risks in the besieged enclave.
Carney emphasized that Canada’s recognition depends on the Palestinian Authority’s commitment to governance reforms and holding elections by 2026—excluding Hamas. The PA, which represents Palestine at the UN, has reportedly assured Western nations of its willingness to reform. However, Israel and the U.S. swiftly rejected the move, with Israel’s Foreign Ministry calling it a “reward for Hamas” that undermines ceasefire efforts.
A UN-backed hunger monitor warns that famine is unfolding in Gaza, where the Health Ministry reported seven starvation deaths—including a malnourished toddler—in a single day. Meanwhile, Hamas officials accused Israel of killing 50 Palestinians during chaotic aid distribution near Gaza City. Over 32,000 Palestinians have died in the war, with children now perishing from hunger as aid trucks face delays and attacks.
The announcements by Canada, France, and Britain signal a historic rift between Israel and its Western allies. While the White House dismissed Palestinian statehood as “rewarding Hamas,” Netanyahu doubled down, vowing to continue military operations. The UN recognition push could reshape Middle East diplomacy, but with no ceasefire in sight, Gaza’s suffering persists as global divisions deepen.