This excerpt originally appeared in The Hub.
By Casey Babb, August 5, 2025
Many have criticized Prime Minister Mark Carney’s decision to recognize Palestinian statehood, arguing that it rewards terrorism, prolongs the conflict, and blatantly disregards the feelings of Jewish Canadians. All of these points are valid. However, this foreign policy misstep is perhaps most injurious in that it completely undermines Ottawa’s relations with Jerusalem and Washington, D.C., at a time when strong international bonds are badly needed. From this perspective, it isn’t just that Canada is aimlessly watching the world change from the sidelines. It’s that we risk jeopardizing relations with our closest Middle Eastern ally amid an unprecedented period of regional transformation, while further sabotaging relations with America—the most important ally we’ve ever had.
That said, it isn’t too late to turn things around. Going forward, Canada could and should stop with the theatrical political performances and focus on our strengths.
For instance, we have a storied history and expertise in peacekeeping that could go a very long way in a place like Gaza. The same can be said for our work in contributing to the security of demilitarized zones— something we did, for instance, during the Korean War and Rwanda. Canada also has robust programs —comprised of multiple departments, agencies, and international partners—focused on conflict prevention and stabilization efforts in fragile and conflict-affected states. These programs and resources could benefit the lives of Israelis and Palestinians alike. Perhaps there’s even a role for our elite special forces, who are known to be some of the very best in the world. From supporting Israeli security and intelligence practitioners in securing the hostages, to persecuting those responsible for the murder of eight Canadians on October 7, 2023, to uprooting Hamas from Gaza, there may very well be opportunities for Canada’s military to put their expertise to good use.
All told, Canada’s move to recognize Palestinian statehood is reckless and shortsighted. But the future of our foreign policy doesn’t need to be the same. Indeed, no one benefits from empty promises and hollow platitudes—least of all Palestinians.
Dr. Casey Babb is director of the Promised Land project at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.
