CIJA Statement on Canada’s Middle East Position

Ottawa, ON – July 30, 2025 – In response to Prime Minister Carney’s announcement today on the situation in the Middle East, Noah Shack, CEO, Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, released the following statement: 

“Today, the Prime Minister stated that Canada will pre-emptively recognize a Palestinian state. This 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.

“Extending recognition absent real change on the ground is a recipe for another failed Palestinian pseudo-state controlled by terrorists. It is deeply concerning that the government did not make statehood recognition contingent on the removal of Hamas from Gaza 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. As the Prime Minister previously said, 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.”

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