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Canada's shifting stance on Iran strikes draws domestic fire
Prime Minister Mark Carney is facing mounting criticism at home over his response to the U.S.-Israeli military strikes against Iran, as Ottawa works to evacuate Canadian citizens from the region amid fears of a broader conflict.
From strong support to cautious retreat
Carney initially voiced firm backing for the strikes launched a week ago, arguing they were necessary to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to curb the regime's threats to global security. However, he later expressed regret, calling the strikes "inconsistent with international law." During a meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Carney joined calls for "rapid de-escalation."
While his early response was more resolute than those of the U.K., France, and Germany-who condemned Iran but urged a return to negotiations-Carney now appears to be navigating a narrower diplomatic path. His position mirrors the evolving stances of European allies, all of whom have adjusted their approaches since issuing a joint statement.
Allies recalibrate amid escalating tensions
France has bolstered its military presence in the region after an Iranian strike targeted one of its bases in the United Arab Emirates. The U.K. has agreed to allow the U.S. to use British military facilities for "defensive" operations, with a U.S. B-1 Lancer bomber-capable of carrying 24 cruise missiles-arriving in the U.K. on Friday. Meanwhile, Germany has readied troops for defensive measures, though Chancellor Friedrich Merz has warned against becoming entangled in "endless wars."
Carney has not ruled out military involvement, stating Canada "will stand by our allies, when it makes sense." However, Foreign Minister Anita Anand clarified on Friday that Canada has "no intention to participate in Operation Epic Fury." She emphasized that Canadian officials are coordinating with allies to prioritize de-escalation and the protection of civilians.
Liberal Party fractures over Carney's approach
Criticism within Carney's own Liberal Party has been sharp. Former Foreign Minister Lloyd Axworthy, writing in the Toronto Star, accused Carney of abandoning Canada's historical opposition to unilateral military action, citing the country's refusal to support the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq. "We are embracing the very doctrine we used to reject," Axworthy argued.
"Canada cannot endorse the unilateral and illegal use of military force... while also insisting that our sovereignty, our rights and our independence must be protected."
Liberal MP Will Greaves, on social media
The reference to sovereignty appeared to allude to former U.S. President Donald Trump's repeated suggestions that Canada could become the 51st U.S. state. Conservative opposition figures have labeled Carney's stance "contradictory" and "incoherent."
Experts weigh in on Carney's balancing act
Roland Paris, director of the University of Ottawa's Graduate School of Public and International Affairs and a Chatham House fellow, told the BBC that Carney's position has been "a bit hard to decipher." He noted that the backlash reflects the difficulty of implementing the "clear-eyed pragmatism" Carney outlined in a January speech in Davos, where he urged middle powers like Canada to unite against "great powers" and adopt a "principled" foreign policy aligned with the U.N. Charter.
Paris acknowledged that Carney's response has since moved toward a more balanced position, addressing both concerns about the Iranian regime and the risks of deeper involvement in the conflict. However, he added that reconciling the two elements of the Davos speech was always going to be challenging.
Thomas Juneau, another professor at the University of Ottawa, suggested in the Globe and Mail that Carney's stance is likely influenced by the need to manage relations with Trump. With Canada heavily dependent on U.S. trade and facing high-stakes negotiations with the Trump administration, Juneau warned that "an easily irritated Trump will not hesitate to penalize those who criticize or oppose him." While critics argue Canada has nothing to gain from endorsing the conflict, Juneau countered that the country has "much to lose" by alienating its southern neighbor.
Public opinion divided as evacuation efforts continue
A recent Angus Reid poll revealed a split among Canadians, with 48% opposing or strongly opposing the U.S. strikes on Iran, 35% in support, and 17% uncertain. Meanwhile, Anand announced plans to assist Canadians seeking to leave the region, ahead of a Liberal Party caucus meeting to discuss the crisis.
Chief of the Defence Staff Gen. Jennie Carignan indicated that Canada's Gulf partners "may require defence and support," hinting at potential military options under consideration. However, Anand emphasized that the government remains focused on de-escalation and safeguarding civilian lives.
