Ottawa has begun busing Canadians out of Israel and the West Bank, and assisting those fleeing Iran, though the uptake has been slow, coming days after Canada advised citizens to find their own way out. This effort follows updated travel advisories, including one for Qatar, where Iran recently attacked a U.S. base.
Global Affairs Canada reported that approximately 6,000 Canadians have registered in Israel, over 400 in the West Bank, and around 5,500 in Iran. However, Dennis Horak, a former Canadian ambassador to the Middle East, noted that the actual number of Canadians in these regions is likely much higher. Canada’s delayed busing initiative, launched after similar services by allies like France and Australia, has drawn criticism. Despite having more flight spots available than takers, only 100 passengers have booked a $400 flight from Aqaba, Jordan, to Athens, which departs on Tuesday with 265 seats. From Athens, Canadians can arrange their own travel home with embassy assistance.
On Monday, a mere 55 Canadians boarded a bus from Tel Aviv to Jordan, and seven from the West Bank. The first bus, originally scheduled for Sunday, was delayed due to security concerns. With its embassy in Iran closed since 2012, Canada has stationed officials in neighbouring countries like Turkey, where 10 Canadians recently used a provided bus to exit the region. Four Canadian buses are currently at the Iran-Turkey border. Consular officials are also assisting Canadians looking to enter Azerbaijan from Iran, with over 100 requests facilitated.
The number of registered Canadians has varied, with hundreds finding their own ways out. Canadians in Iran have faced difficulties getting information on departures due to internet restrictions following Israel’s June 13 missile attack on Iran. Congested streets and fuel rationing have also made it challenging to reach neighbouring countries. Canada has advised against all travel to Iran since March 2020 and extended this warning to Israel on June 13, upgrading a previous “avoid non-essential travel” advisory. Airspace over both countries and other parts of the Middle East has largely been closed amid ongoing missile exchanges.
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand spoke with Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi on Sunday, emphasizing the safety of Canadian citizens. Horak noted this as a rare official call between Ottawa and Tehran since diplomatic ties were severed in 2012, suggesting Anand may have sought permission for evacuation flights once airspace reopens. He added that providing buses at Iran’s borders is likely Canada’s only immediate option given the absence of diplomats on the ground, highlighting the “practical limits” and doubled challenges of assisting citizens without a direct presence.
Horak stressed that consular duties, especially in conflict zones, are a top priority for diplomats and Global Affairs Canada staff. Meanwhile, Iran’s missile attack on Qatar’s al-Udeid airbase, housing the largest American base in the Middle East, was reportedly thwarted by Qatari authorities. Global Affairs Canada has advised Canadians in Qatar to shelter in place but has not discouraged travel there. Horak concluded that Canada has limited influence in the region due to its small diplomatic presence, but that the Middle East inevitably demands attention.