Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has hinted at recognising Palestine as a state, days after three European nations — Norway, Ireland and Spain — announc­­ed their intention to recognise a Palestinian state.

“We are prepared to recognize the state of Palestine at the right time not necessarily as a last step along the path,” he said while on the floor of the House on Thursday.

“We were pleased to be able to support the NDP motion several months ago we will continue to work forward on promoting peace and working towards stability in the Middle East.”

He was responding to New Democratic Party (NDP) MP and foreign affairs critic Heather McPherson in the House of Commons, urging him to ‘take a stand’ against the Gaza conflict.

Before making the statement, he stressed the need for building a “credible path” towards lasting peace.

“We oppose efforts by the Netanyahu government to reject a two-state solution. At the same time, Hamas, a terrorist group, currently controls areas in Gaza and has not laid down its arms or released its hostages,” Trudeau said.

Read more

Spain says Israel’s ‘disproportionate response’ in Gaza a global threat

Netanyahu, Hamas leader indicate deal on Gaza truce and hostages is close

UN General Assembly backs Palestinian bid for membership

Similarly, this decision was backed by the Green Party of Canada, stating that “Canada has a moral and strategic imperative to recognize Palestine as a state.”

The three nations hope other countries will follow but Europe remains split over the issue as the Israel-Hamas war rages. France said it was not the right time to give recognition however.

The announcement by prime ministers Jonas Gahr Store of Norway, Pedro Sanchez of Spain and Simon Harris of Ireland in their capitals is the second diplomatic blow this week, after the International Criminal Court prosecutor said he would seek arrest warrants for Israel’s prime minister and Hamas leaders.