Canadian Jewish umbrella group criticizes Palestine recognition as ‘pre-emptive’

Canada’s Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, which represents the country’s Jewish Federations, has come out against Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s statement on Wednesday that Ottawa will recognize a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly in September.

The announcement “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,” says CIJA head Noah Shack in a statement.

“Extending recognition absent real change on the ground is a recipe for another failed Palestinian pseudo-state controlled by terrorists,” Shack continues. “It is deeply concerning that the government did not link statehood recognition to the removal of Hamas 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,” Shack says. “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.”