Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand is scheduled to update Liberal Members of Parliament on Friday morning regarding the government’s stance on the ongoing conflict in Iran and neighboring Middle Eastern nations. This briefing comes in response to concerns raised by some individuals, both privately and publicly, over Prime Minister Mark Carney’s initial remarks following the U.S.-Israeli military actions, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The briefing, to be conducted virtually due to the non-sitting week of the House of Commons, will offer MPs insights into the situation in Iran and the consular assistance provided by Global Affairs Canada (GAC). Additionally, MPs will have the opportunity to inquire about Canada’s position and the government’s communication strategy given Carney’s various statements on the issue.
The Liberal caucus call is scheduled the day after all parliamentarians were briefed on Middle East affairs by GAC. At the onset of the conflict last Saturday, a joint statement attributed to Carney and Anand expressed Canada’s support for the U.S. in preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and deterring threats to international peace and security posed by the Iranian regime.
The statement also highlighted Iran as a primary source of instability and terrorism in the region with a poor human rights record, emphasizing the necessity to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear armaments without mentioning the obligations under international law.
The lack of reference to international law in the initial statement drew attention from Liberal MP Will Greaves, who criticized the endorsement of unilateral military actions, civilian casualties, and political assassinations. CBC News has learned that two other MPs privately conveyed similar reservations to cabinet members. One MP expressed concerns to Global Affairs about the initial omission of international law, while another voiced dissatisfaction to the Prime Minister’s Office staff following the initial statement by Carney.
By Tuesday, Carney clarified that Canada’s support for the U.S. and Israel was not unconditional and affirmed the importance of adhering to international law for all parties involved. He criticized Iran for targeting civilian infrastructure and urged all parties, including the U.S. and Israel, to comply with international engagement norms.
During a subsequent media interaction on Wednesday, Carney acknowledged that Canada could potentially engage in military actions to protect its allies if necessary. This shift in messaging has drawn criticism from the Conservative Party, with Foreign Affairs Critic Michael Chong describing Carney’s position on Iran as inconsistent.
The Conservatives are calling for a parliamentary debate before any Canadian military involvement. The NDP is contemplating a demand for an emergency debate on Iran when the House of Commons reconvenes on Monday. Greaves expressed optimism about the evolving stance and leadership of the prime minister in handling the complex issue, as Carney concludes his international trip with a visit to Japan before returning to Canada.