President Donald Trump has sharply criticised Canada’s decision to recognise a Palestinian state, warning that the move could endanger the future of a US-Canada trade agreement.
Canada made the announcement on Wednesday, joining the United Kingdom and France in pledging to formally recognise Palestinian statehood amid growing international concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, President Trump wrote:
“Wow!… That will make it very hard for us to make a Trade Deal with them. Oh’ Canada!!!”
The president has set a firm deadline of August 1 for countries to finalise new trade agreements with the United States or face higher tariffs. His remarks suggest Canada could face economic consequences for its foreign policy stance.
Canada’s Prime Minister, Mark Carney, said the recognition would be made official during the upcoming UN General Assembly, but would depend on key democratic reforms by the Palestinian Authority, including holding elections and excluding Hamas from governance.
The move has drawn a strong rebuke from Israel’s Foreign Ministry, which called it a “reward for Hamas”. Meanwhile, President Trump’s administration has taken a hardline stance in support of Israel throughout the conflict that reignited after the Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel on October 7, 2023.
Over 60,000 people have been killed in Gaza since the war began, and humanitarian agencies have warned of a severe hunger crisis in the territory.
US Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, arrived in Israel on Tuesday. Israeli media report he may also visit aid sites in Gaza as the administration faces mounting international pressure to support a long-term ceasefire.
The US remains the only permanent member of the UN Security Council yet to formally recognise a Palestinian state. If Canada proceeds with its plan, the diplomatic gap between the US and key allies like the UK and France may further widen.
Chioma Kalu
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