Will Canada recognize Palestinian statehood?

An opposition day motion presented by the New Democratic Party‘s (NDP) foreign affairs critic has stirred up debate within the federal Liberal caucus. The motion, tabled by NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh and sponsored by the party’s foreign affairs critic Heather McPherson, urges the Canadian government to take several actions in response to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, including the official recognition of the State of Palestine.

McPherson emphasized that the motion was crafted to align with international law and Canadian policy, rather than being a political maneuver. She expressed hope for support from Liberal members, noting recent indications of increased engagement from them on the issue.

Conversely, Montreal MP Anthony Housefather intends to oppose the motion, labeling it as “anti-Israel.”

However, the motion is expected to cause division within the government caucus. Liberal MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, while acknowledging reservations, affirmed his backing for the motion, citing its focus on human rights and peace preservation.

Conversely, Montreal MP Anthony Housefather intends to oppose the motion, labeling it as “anti-Israel.” He raised concerns about clauses calling for an immediate ceasefire and the suspension of military equipment sales to Israel, asserting that such measures would reward Hamas for its attacks.

Housefather highlighted the significance of the motion, emphasizing its departure from decades of Canadian foreign policy regarding the recognition of Palestine. He pointed out that Canada would be the first G7 country to recognize Palestinian statehood, diverging from the stance of other Western nations.

The Trudeau government’s approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has seen evolution in recent years. While maintaining a historically pro-Israel stance, the government has made slight shifts, such as supporting an annual motion affirming Palestinian self-determination since 2019.

McPherson argued that Canada’s current position, which defers recognition until after final-status negotiations between the parties, is inadequate. She stressed the need for alternative solutions to achieve peace in the region.

Housefather echoed support for a two-state solution but cautioned against changing Canada’s policy in response to current events, particularly amid heightened tensions.

The NDP motion serves as a catalyst for critical discussions on Canada’s role in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the potential implications of recognizing Palestine as a state. As debates unfold within the Liberal caucus, the motion underscores the complexities and sensitivities surrounding Canadian foreign policy in the Middle East.