NCCM: Palestinian statehood is a right, not a bargaining chip
“The Palestinian right to exist, as a state and as a people, is and remains inalienable. It is also a right protected by international law. It is not subject to conditions,” NCCM declared.
Canada’s announcement that it will recognize the State of Palestine this September was met with guarded approval — and pointed criticism — from the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM), which stressed that Palestinian rights cannot be made conditional.
In its statement, NCCM welcomed the government’s move as “a potential step in the right direction.”
But it warned that attaching conditions to recognition ignores a fundamental truth: the Palestinian right to exist, both as a state and as a people, is inalienable and protected under international law.
“The Palestinian right to exist, as a state and as a people, is and remains inalienable. It is also a right protected by international law. It is not subject to conditions,” NCCM declared.
For nearly two years, Canadians have watched in horror as scenes of catastrophic starvation, mass killings, and children dying in Gaza while seeking aid have filled their screens.
Against this backdrop of an ongoing genocide, NCCM argued that symbolic recognition alone is not enough.
Calls for Stronger Action
NCCM outlined specific steps Ottawa must take if it is serious about justice:
- Sanctions on the Netanyahu government for its ongoing assault on civilians.
- A full two-way arms embargo to prevent Canadian complicity in the conflict.
- A review of the Canada–Israel Free Trade Agreement, which NCCM argues entrenches an unjust status quo.
- Expedited pathways to help Palestinians escaping Gaza reunite with family in Canada.
“Canada can and must do more,” the statement read, underscoring the urgency of action that goes beyond diplomacy.
Canada’s Position
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced earlier today that Canada will formally recognize Palestine during the UN General Assembly in September.
His government said the recognition is conditional on reforms, including demilitarization and elections in 2026 where Hamas plays no role.
Carney framed the decision as part of a global effort to rescue the two‑state solution and respond to the mounting humanitarian crisis.
The Community’s Message
While many see today’s announcement as a shift in Canada’s foreign policy, community voices like NCCM emphasize that justice cannot be delayed or watered down by conditions.
For Canadian Muslims and allies who have marched, written, and prayed for Gaza, today’s announcement may feel like progress.
But as NCCM reminds the country, real solidarity means taking steps that protect lives now, not waiting until September.