Ottawa, 18 March (H.S.):
Canada has firmly distanced itself from the burgeoning U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran, emphasizing de-escalation and civilian protection as its foremost priorities.
Foreign Minister Anita Anand, speaking ahead of consultations in Ankara with Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan, underscored that Ottawa was neither consulted nor involved in the strikes igniting the Middle East war. Canada did not participate in the military action and has no intention of engaging in any offensive operations, she affirmed in a telephone interview, highlighting a steadfast commitment to humanitarian imperatives over belligerence.
The declaration arrives as U.S. President Donald Trump urges NATO allies to assist in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, blockaded by Iran since hostilities erupted, exacerbating global fuel shortages and supply disruptions. Anand reiterated Canada's long-held view of Iran as a destabilizing force, particularly regarding its nuclear ambitions, yet stressed that Prime Minister Mark Carney's nuanced support for initial strikes reflects a broader quest for regional stability rather than doctrinal shift.
In parallel discussions with Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz, Anand and counterparts concurred that terminating the conflict serves civilian interests paramountly. NATO's interception of Iranian ballistic missiles encroaching on Turkish airspace has prompted bolstering defenses with additional Patriot systems, though Turkey prioritizes non-intervention, deeming extant protections sufficient.
Anand voiced alarm over the Israel-Hezbollah clashes in Lebanon, where civilians endure disproportionate suffering. Alongside France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom, Canada issued a joint admonition against escalatory Israeli ground offensives, forewarning catastrophic humanitarian fallout and advocating negotiated resolutions between Israeli and Lebanese stakeholders.
Should a NATO member face direct assault, Anand indicated collective alliance deliberations would guide Ottawa's response, preserving unity without preemptive entanglement. This measured posture aligns with Carney's expressed regret over the fraying global order exemplified by the Iran strikes.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
