Mark Carney, the Prime Minister of Canada, stated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would be arrested if he entered Canada. Carney made this assertion during an interview with British journalist Mishal Husain, which was released on Friday. In the 37-minute podcast, Carney discussed various topics, including his motivations for running for office and his views on U.S. President Donald Trump.

Carney emphasized the importance of establishing a Palestinian state, saying, "The end goal is a free and viable Palestinian state living side by side, peace and security, with the state of Israel." He criticized the actions of Netanyahu's government, claiming they were aimed at undermining the possibility of a Palestinian state, which he argued violates the United Nations charter and contradicts Canadian policy since 1947.

Since that year, Canada has supported a two-state solution. Carney officially recognized Palestinian statehood in September, a move that drew criticism from Jewish groups who argued it would empower Hamas. However, Carney maintained that this recognition does not diminish Canada’s commitment to Israel's security, which he believes can only be assured through a comprehensive two-state solution.

During the podcast, Carney acknowledged that while the U.S. disagrees with his recognition of Palestinian statehood, both countries share a common goal. He stated, "You’re going to have to keep up the pressure on the Israeli government" to achieve a peaceful resolution.

Husain reminded Carney of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's commitment to honor International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrants, specifically mentioning Netanyahu. When asked if this policy would continue under his leadership, Carney affirmed, "Yes."

Husain pressed further, asking if he would be prepared to act on this. Carney responded, "Yes."

Critics have voiced strong opposition to Carney's stance. Casey Babb, a senior fellow at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, questioned the logic of allowing terrorist organizations to operate freely while barring the leader of Israel. Conservative MP Roman Baber expressed disbelief on social media, highlighting Hamas's actions and criticizing Carney's position.

The ICC issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu in November 2024, accusing him of war crimes related to the conflict in Gaza, which escalated after Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. Israel has denied allegations of genocide and starvation, asserting that Hamas has misappropriated humanitarian aid.

Following the warrant's issuance, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, a Canadian advocacy group, called for the government to reject what they termed a "perversion of justice," arguing that it undermines international law and supports terrorist groups in their conflict against Israel.