Fighting across the Middle East intensified Tuesday as the conflict with Iran entered its fourth day, raising fears of a wider regional war.
Explosions were heard overnight in Tehran as Iran launched missiles and drones at Israel and targets in nearby Gulf countries, including oil sites and the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia. The violence has also renewed clashes between Israel and the Iran-backed group Hezbollah in Lebanon. With no clear plan to end the fighting, concerns are growing about a long and dangerous conflict.
Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada supports the U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran “with regret.” Speaking from Australia, he said the attacks appear to break international law and that Canada was not told about them in advance or asked to take part.
Carney said Canada believes Iran is a major source of instability in the Middle East and wants to stop it from getting a nuclear weapon. At the same time, he urged all sides — including the U.S. and Israel — to respect international law and avoid harming civilians.
The U.S. military said it has struck nearly 2,000 targets in Iran and destroyed 17 Iranian ships. Oil prices have continued to rise sharply as markets react to the unrest.
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said Canada has asked Oman for access to its airspace if evacuations are needed. More than 97,000 Canadians have registered as being in the Middle East.
Canada has also warned that Iran may launch cyberattacks in response, possibly targeting energy systems and government networks.
Defence Minister David McGuinty said some Canadian military members are in the region but are “out of harm’s way.” He said Canada supports the strikes but is calling for diplomacy and a ceasefire.
