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Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized that since 1947, Canada has believed that the only path to lasting peace in the Middle East is the two-state solution.

Carney noted that due to the terrorism of the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Organization, its refusal to recognize Israel’s right to exist – which peaked with the October 7, 2023 attack – the rapid expansion of settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, the growing violence of settlers against Palestinians, steps such as the E1 settlement project and this year’s Knesset vote demanding annexation of the West Bank, along with the Israeli government’s role in the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, particularly the obstruction of access to food and essential aid, this goal has weakened over the years.

Carney stated that the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Organization not only terrorizes the people of Israel but also oppresses the people of Gaza, causing terrible suffering. He stressed that the organization must release all hostages, fully disarm, and play no role in the future Palestinian administration.

In declaring Canada’s recognition of the State of Palestine, Carney affirmed Canada’s readiness to work with both Palestine and Israel for a peaceful future.

Australian Prime Minister Antonio Albanese announced that the Commonwealth of Australia has officially recognized the independent and sovereign State of Palestine.

Albanese stressed that with this step, Australia has recognized the legitimate aspiration of the Palestinian people to have their own state. He added: “Australia’s decision today is part of an internationally coordinated effort, undertaken together with Canada and the United Kingdom, to create new momentum for the two-state solution. The process will begin with a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of the hostages kidnapped during the October 7, 2023 attacks.”

Albanese emphasized that Australia’s decision is based on its long-standing vision of the two-state solution, seen as the only path to lasting peace and security for the peoples of Israel and Palestine.

He also added that Australia, based on this recognition, will continue to work with its international partners to bring the Middle East closer to lasting peace and security, which represent the hope and right of all humanity.