Carney Joins World Leaders at UN Assembly Amid Palestinian Recognition

Prime Minister Mark Carney is scheduled to meet with global leaders at the United Nations General Assembly on September 22, 2025, following Canada’s recognition of Palestinian statehood. This move comes as the UN faces pushback from the Trump administration, particularly regarding efforts to address ongoing turmoil in the Middle East.

On September 21, leaders from the United Kingdom, Australia, and Portugal joined Canada in acknowledging an independent Palestinian state. This decision has prompted significant international discourse as representatives gather in New York City for the 80th session of the General Assembly. Other countries are anticipated to align with this coordinated recognition effort.

The recognition has drawn condemnation from Israel and the Trump administration, who argue that it could empower Hamas, the group responsible for the October 7, 2023, attacks. They assert that this recognition complicates efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages. In response, the United States has blocked several UN Security Council resolutions calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, stating that these resolutions do not adequately condemn Hamas.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has taken additional measures by revoking the visas of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and 80 other officials before the General Assembly convenes. This action reflects the U.S. administration’s stance against the recognition of Palestinian statehood.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed strong opposition to the recognition, declaring that it “will not happen” and accusing Canada and its allies of providing a “prize” to Hamas. In a statement released by the U.S. State Department, officials emphasized their commitment to serious diplomacy, prioritizing the release of hostages, Israel’s security, and broader regional stability. The statement highlighted their approach: “Our priorities are clear: the release of the hostages, the security of Israel, and peace and prosperity for the entire region that is only possible free from Hamas.”

As the General Assembly progresses, Netanyahu is expected to address the assembly on September 27, 2025, before heading to Washington for further discussions with Trump. Following the recognition of Palestinian statehood, Hamas has welcomed the development, urging the global community to isolate Israel.

Carney is participating in a high-level segment focused on Palestine and a two-state solution, which envisions a peaceful coexistence between a Palestinian state and Israel. Earlier in the day, Carney will engage in a discussion at the Council on Foreign Relations. His meeting with UN Secretary-General António Guterres on September 21 reinforced Canada’s longstanding support for a two-state solution, alongside discussions about the urgent need for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the rapid scaling of humanitarian aid.

As the world watches, the outcomes from this week’s General Assembly could significantly influence ongoing discussions surrounding Middle Eastern stability and the prospect of a lasting peace.