OTTAWA
— Canada’s foreign affairs minister is urging de-escalation after Israel launched strikes on Iran, targeting its nuclear sites and killing the leader of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.
Anita Anand, in a statement posted to X, warned that “further action” risks triggering “a broader regional conflict with devastating consequences.”
“De-escalation must be the priority,” she wrote Friday morning.
“We urge all parties to refrain from actions that further destabilize the region. The protection of civilians must be paramount.”
Anand went on to say that Canada remains concerned about Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs and capabilities.
“Importantly, Canadians in the region are advised to exercise a very high degree of caution, monitor developments closely, and follow the advice of local authorities.”
After its strike, Israel’s military said Iran retaliated by launching drones. Israel has closed its airspace, grounding airlines.
In an earlier statement from the White House, United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Israel took “unilateral action against Iran” that did not involve the U.S.
“Our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” Rubio’s statement read.
“Israel advised us that they believe this action was necessary for its self-defence. President Trump and the administration have taken all necessary steps to protect our forces and remain in close contact with our regional partners.”
Rubio then added a warning: “Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests of personnel.”
Back in Canada, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre posted to X that Israel “disarming Tehran’s genocidal nuclear program” is within Israel’s right to self-defence.
“It cannot wait until the regime has capabilities for a nuclear strike.”
The interim president of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, a Canadian Jewish advocacy organization, said in a statement that Iran backs terrorism through proxies like Hamas and Hezbollah and was responsible for the downing of a flight in early 2020, which killed 55 Canadians.
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The international community must not allow the Iranian regime to acquire the means to threaten millions of lives in the Middle East, Europe, and ultimately here in North America,” Noah Shack said in a statement.
“Countries like Canada that value democracy and reject terrorism must stand firmly in support of Israel’s right to defend itself, especially against the threat of a nuclear-armed Iran.”
More to come …
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With files from The Associated Press
National Post
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