Canada says it was not consulted before the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran and will not take part in offensive military operations in the conflict.
Anita Anand said Canada did not participate in the military action that triggered the war in the Middle East and has no plans to join any offensive campaign.
Speaking before meetings in Ankara with Hakan Fidan, Anand said Canada’s main priority is reducing tensions and protecting civilians affected by the conflict.
She said Canada’s foreign policy is focused on de-escalation and humanitarian concerns as fighting continues across the region.
The war began after strikes by the United States and Israel targeted Iran earlier this year. Since then, the conflict has expanded across the Middle East and has disrupted global energy markets.
U.S. President Donald Trump recently urged NATO allies and other countries to help secure the Strait of Hormuz after Iran blocked the key shipping lane.
The strait carries about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply, and the disruption has contributed to rising fuel prices and global supply chain concerns.
During her visit to Turkey, Anand also met with Cevdet Yilmaz. Both sides agreed that ending the conflict and reducing tensions in the region should be the top priority.
Since the war began, NATO air defence systems have intercepted several Iranian missiles heading toward Turkish airspace. The alliance has also deployed additional Patriot missile defence systems to help protect the country.
Asked whether Canada would join military action if a NATO member were attacked, Anand said any decisions would be made in consultation with NATO allies.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney initially expressed support for the strikes on Iran but later said he backed them with “some regret,” reflecting concerns about growing global instability.
Anand said Canada’s overall position remains unchanged, noting that Ottawa has long viewed Iran as a destabilizing force in the region because of its nuclear ambitions.
She also raised concerns about the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, warning that civilians in Lebanon are suffering heavily as fighting continues.
Canada, along with several European countries, recently issued a joint warning about the risk of a major Israeli ground offensive in Lebanon, saying it could lead to severe humanitarian consequences and prolong the conflict.