Prime Minister Mark Carney told Parliament that Canada will not take part in the ongoing military offensive against Iran being carried out by the United States and Israel, stating clearly that Canada “will never participate” in the conflict. Carney appeared in the House of Commons during question period on Tuesday after facing criticism from opposition members for not addressing lawmakers earlier about Canada’s position on the war.
During the exchange, Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet pressed the prime minister to clarify Canada’s stance and outline his broader vision for the Middle East. Carney responded by reaffirming that while Canada supports efforts to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons and exporting terrorism, the country will not join the military campaign underway in the region. He also said Canada is working with international partners to find ways to reduce tensions and promote de-escalation.
The prime minister told MPs he has been in contact with several international leaders, including Donald Trump and Emmanuel Macron, as governments coordinate responses to the growing crisis. Discussions with allies also focused on securing access through the Strait of Hormuz, which has become a key concern as the conflict threatens global energy supplies. Carney also spoke earlier with Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani about regional developments.
Carney’s appearance came after opposition parties criticized him for missing a parliamentary debate on the conflict the previous day. Several MPs questioned why the prime minister did not attend the discussion initiated by the government itself, during which Anita Anand and David McGuinty represented the government. According to his schedule, Carney had been attending a community Iftar event marking the Ramadan fast.
The debate over Canada’s role in the conflict has intensified in recent days, with critics pointing to mixed messaging from the government. Carney initially expressed support for the airstrikes as a way to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons but later said that support came with regret because the attacks were carried out without following international law. Opposition leaders, including Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre and New Democratic Party Leader Don Davies, have argued the government must provide clearer answers about Canada’s approach to the escalating conflict.
Despite the political exchanges in Parliament, Carney emphasized that Canada’s priority remains diplomatic engagement and cooperation with allies to ease tensions and prevent the war from expanding further across the Middle East.