Families of eight Canadians killed by Hamas terrorists are urging the public to oppose Prime Minister Mark Carney’s plans to recognize a Palestinian state. They argue that such recognition would legitimize Hamas's actions and endanger the lives of remaining hostages.

In a joint statement released late Saturday, the families shared brief profiles of the eight Canadians who lost their lives in the October 7, 2023, attacks, including a well-known peace activist. The statement emphasized their concerns about Carney's announcement, which he made on Sunday morning while attending the UN General Assembly in New York.

“Canada recognizes the State of Palestine and offers our partnership in building the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel,” Carney posted on social media. The families responded, stating, “By recognizing a Palestinian state today, Prime Minister Carney emboldens Hamas, legitimizes their barbarism, and sends a devastating message to terror victims everywhere.” They highlighted that 48 hostages remain in captivity and expressed concern for their well-being, referencing Hamas's propaganda videos that depict the dire conditions of those still alive.

Carney had previously indicated that his decision to recognize Palestinian statehood was contingent upon the Palestinian Authority's commitment to reforms, including a pledge from President Mahmoud Abbas to hold elections in 2026 and the release of hostages. However, the families pointed out that none of these conditions have been met.

“Instead of standing firmly against terror, our government has chosen to hand Hamas a victory,” the statement continued. “Recognition without peace, without security, without justice, is recognition of terror.” They urged that Canada should not normalize Hamas's violence by granting statehood to a divided Palestinian leadership that cannot control its extremists.

The families also expressed their determination to keep the memory of the October 7 attacks alive, stating, “We will not be silent as our government undermines the safety of Jews in Israel, Canada, and around the world.”

On October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists killed 1,200 Israelis and took 251 hostages. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, including many civilians, and has devastated the region. Israel disputes the death toll reported by Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry.

The families provided mini-profiles of their loved ones, including Adi Vital Kaploun, a 33-year-old dual citizen of Canada and Israel. Adi was at home in Kibbutz Holit with her two young children when terrorists broke in. She attempted to protect her children in a safe room but was shot in front of them. Her children were briefly kidnapped but later released. Her family described her as an “amazing woman, amazing mother, and the kindest person.”

Another victim, Ben Mizrachi, originally from Vancouver, was attending the Nova music festival when the attack occurred. Reports indicate that he used his medic training to assist the injured before he was killed. Ben is remembered for his joyful spirit and loving nature.