Canada’s parliament approved on Monday a modified version submitted by the New Democratic Party (NDP) concerning the status of a Palestinian state.
The non-binding motion originally called on the government to officially recognize the “State of Palestine,” but was rewritten to say “work with international partners to actively pursue the goal of a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the Middle East, including towards the establishment of the State of Palestine as part of a negotiated two-state solution,” as per CTV News.
“The two-state solution definition was really important, as of course we know that Canada, as a G7 country, is sending a message to other G7 countries,” Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly said regarding the amendment.
The resolution passed 204 to 117, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and most Liberal MPs voting in favor, alongside NDP, Bloc Quebecois, and Green Party members. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre and his party voted against the proposal.
Trudeau spoke with Israeli Minister Benny Gantz on Monday to express his concern over Israel’s planned military operation in Rafah. He emphasized the potential severe humanitarian impact on civilians in Rafah and stressed the need for renewed efforts towards a two-state solution.
