NDP statement on Palestinian statehood

Heather McPherson, NDP Foreign Affairs Critic, made the following statement:

“Today, Ireland, Spain and Norway announced they will soon recognize the State of Palestine.

In February, New Democrats asked Canada to do the same. Shamefully, the Liberals are refusing to take this crucial step towards peace and justice for Palestinians and Israelis.

For decades, Palestinians have been subject to foreign military occupation, resulting in the denial of political and economic sovereignty and the right to move and live freely within the Palestinian territories. Canada’s longstanding policy ‘recognizes the Palestinian right to self-determination and supports the creation of a sovereign, independent, viable, democratic and territorially contiguous Palestinian state, as part of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace settlement.’ But under the Liberals Canada has done nothing to uphold this policy.

The State of Palestine already exists under international law. It is recognized by 140 countries, soon 143. It is time for Canada to join the growing number of countries recognizing it. The right of the Palestinian people to statehood is a globally recognized right and it doesn’t legally require negotiation or a peace settlement.

On Tuesday, the Liberals refused to support the International Criminal Court’s Chief Prosecutor as he seeks to charge senior Hamas and Israeli leaders for crimes committed over the past seven months.

The Liberals have also consistently refused to release documents on arms exports to Israel. They have refused to issue a Notice to Exporters ending arms sales to Israel. And they have refused to sanction members of Netanyahu’s government who have incited genocide.

The Liberals have failed to meet this urgent moment for action. They have failed to stand for international law and human rights. They have abandoned both Palestinians and Israelis who strive for peace and justice. And in doing so, they have severely harmed Canada’s reputation internationally.

New Democrats call on the Liberal government to follow the example set by Ireland, Spain and Norway, and recognize the State of Palestine.”