In a scathing critique, Vivian Bercovici asserts that Prime Minister Mark Carney's Middle East policy is completely detached from reality. On May 7, Carney called Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, during which he criticized Israel and praised the PA's non-existent reforms, according to Bercovici.
Carney's Phone Call with Abbas
Carney posted on X a photo of himself looking at a telephone on a desk, indicating the call. The official readout reveals he expressed criticism of Israel's conduct while lauding unspecified measures by the PA. Bercovici notes that Abbas is in the 21st year of a four-year term and has failed to implement meaningful reforms.
PA's Repressive Record
The Palestinian Authority, Bercovici points out, is repressive, especially regarding gender and LGBT rights—issues central to Liberal foreign policy. Carney's readout praises measures that “strengthen accountability, governance and democratic institutions,” but Bercovici questions what these are, as Abbas has not enacted democratic reforms since his election in 2005.
Government Response Unclear
The National Post submitted a written inquiry to Canada's chief representative in Ramallah, seeking details on Carney's comments. The matter was referred to Global Affairs Canada and then to the Privy Council Office (PCO). A PCO spokesperson stated that the PA continues to advance a UN-supported reform agenda focusing on social protection, education-sector adjustments, and transparency. The PCO also mentioned steps to establish a new social welfare system and develop new education materials.
When asked for specifics on the UN-supported agenda, the PCO refused further details and suggested contacting the United Nations. Bercovici calls this response peculiar, as such an agenda should be available upon request. Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs was unaware of any such UN-supported agenda.
Reforms Perfunctory at Best
Bercovici argues that any PA reforms have been perfunctory. The new welfare system has been criticized by the United States and Israel for continuing to pay families of terrorists—a program known as “pay for slay.” Palestinians who attack Israelis receive a lifetime salary, and their families benefit if they are killed or imprisoned. Israel and many Western countries view this as a reward for terrorism.
Regarding the PA school curriculum, the European Parliament has condemned it for being extremely antisemitic and anti-Israel. Bercovici concludes that Carney's policy is based on pinky promises rather than reality.
