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Prime Minister Mark Carney has expressed his reluctant support for the recent air strikes conducted by the United States and Israel against Iran, citing the necessity of addressing Tehran’s destabilising influence in the Middle East. However, he emphasised that these military actions highlight a significant failure of the international rules-based order and may contravene international law. Speaking from Sydney, Australia, Carney has sought to clarify Canada’s position amid rising tensions in the region.
Regret Amidst Support
Addressing reporters during his Australian visit, Carney stated that while he regards Iran as a paramount threat to regional stability, he backs the strikes “with regret.” His comments mark a clear attempt to distance himself from the unilateral actions taken by U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Carney articulated concerns over the potential for these attacks to escalate into a broader conflict, posing greater risks to civilian lives. “The current conflict is another example of the failure of the international order,” he remarked, underscoring the need for a cohesive response to Iran’s actions without disregarding international protocols.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
The Prime Minister raised questions about the legality of the pre-emptive strikes, stating that they “prima facie, appear to be inconsistent with international law.” He called for the United States and Israel to justify their military actions under international legal standards, leaving it to legal experts to determine the appropriateness of their actions. “That formal judgment is for others to make,” he added, emphasising the complexities surrounding the situation.
Carney’s comments echoed sentiments he expressed earlier this year at the World Economic Forum, where he lamented the breakdown of the international order, noting that powerful nations often act in their own interests without the necessary engagement with international bodies like the United Nations. “Despite decades of UN Security Council resolutions, the tireless work of the International Atomic Energy Agency, and a succession of sanctions, Iran’s nuclear threat remains,” he explained.
Historical Context and Canada’s Position
Canada’s relationship with Iran has been fraught over the last fifteen years, with former Prime Minister Stephen Harper cutting diplomatic ties in 2012. His successor, Justin Trudeau, has maintained a critical stance towards Tehran, particularly following the downing of a Ukrainian commercial flight by Iranian forces in 2020, which resulted in the deaths of numerous Canadians. In 2024, Canada designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps as a terrorist entity, signifying a hardening of its position.
While Carney reaffirmed Canada’s backing of the strikes, he insisted that such support does not equate to a “blank cheque” for further military action. He urged all parties involved to prioritise the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, calling for a de-escalation of hostilities.
Diverging Opinions Within the Liberal Party
The Prime Minister’s remarks have not gone unchallenged within his own party. Former Liberal cabinet minister Lloyd Axworthy has voiced criticism regarding Canada’s endorsement of the strikes, noting that the air attacks lacked UN authorisation. He contrasted this stance with Canada’s refusal to support the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003 for similar reasons. Liberal MP Will Greaves has also expressed concern, arguing that Canada should not endorse unilateral military actions that may result in civilian casualties or violate international norms.
In response to criticism from within the Liberal ranks, Defence Minister David McGuinty pointed out that the party represents a spectrum of views, stating, “The Liberal Party is a big tent. There’s room for all kinds of competing views.” He welcomed the ongoing dialogue and debate as reflective of Canadian society.
Why it Matters
Carney’s comments on the air strikes against Iran underscore a pivotal moment for Canada’s foreign policy and its role on the global stage. As nations grapple with the complexities of international law and the ramifications of military intervention, Canada’s stance could influence its relationships with both allies and adversaries. The Prime Minister’s call for accountability and adherence to international norms resonates amid a backdrop of increasing geopolitical tension, reflecting a broader commitment to maintaining a rules-based order in an increasingly chaotic world. The response to Iran’s actions will likely shape the discourse around international military engagement and humanitarian considerations for years to come.
