Mark Carney is calling for restraint and respect for international law as Donald Trump intensifies threats of a major military strike against Iran.
Speaking from Ottawa, Carney urged all parties to avoid targeting civilians and critical infrastructure, emphasizing that humanitarian obligations must be upheld even amid escalating conflict.
His comments come after Trump warned that “a whole civilization will die tonight” if Iran fails to meet U.S. demands, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The rhetoric has raised alarm globally, with fears of a wider and more destructive phase of the war.
Carney noted that behind-the-scenes negotiations are ongoing but acknowledged uncertainty over whether a breakthrough can be reached in time. He stressed that while Canada supports efforts to counter Iran’s military and nuclear ambitions, it also draws a clear line when it comes to protecting civilian lives and upholding international law.
As tensions peak, Canada is maintaining close communication with allies while urging de-escalation, warning that the stakes now extend beyond the region to global security and stability.