Canada has joined three Western allies in expressing disappointment regarding the Palestinian president’s move to postpone elections for nearly a year, and is calling on him to reconsider his decision.
Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, France, and Portugal recognized Palestinian statehood in September 2025, saying the move was intended to revive hopes for peace between Palestinians and Israelis and advance a two-state solution. The United States and Israel condemned the recognition.
Prime Minister Mark Carney said at the time that recognition was based on President Mahmoud Abbas’ commitment to change, including holding general elections in 2026 that excluded Hamas from governance, and demilitarizing the Palestinian state….