Prime Minister Carney Reverses Course, Endorses U.S. Military Action Against Iran
In a striking admission on Saturday, Prime Minister Mark Carney conceded that the old global order he once declared irreparably ruptured remains firmly intact. This acknowledgment came as he fully endorsed United States military action against Iran, marking a significant departure from previous Canadian foreign policy positions.
A Principled and Pragmatic Statement
Carney's statement, described as both principled and pragmatic, represents the most level-headed and clear-eyed approach to foreign policy from a Canadian prime minister in over a decade. His comments arrived mere hours after the United States and Israel initiated missile strikes against targets across Iran, with President Donald Trump urging the Iranian people to rise up against their government.
"The hour for your freedom is at hand," Trump declared in his address to the Iranian population.
Iran responded swiftly with attacks on American and Israeli targets throughout the region, escalating tensions in an already volatile Middle East.
Canada's Clear Position on Iran
In his statement, Carney wasted no time in assigning responsibility for regional instability. "Canada's position remains clear: the Islamic Republic of Iran is the principal source of instability and terror throughout the Middle East, has one of the world's worst human rights records, and must never be allowed to obtain or develop nuclear weapons," he asserted.
The prime minister emphasized that despite diplomatic efforts, Iran has failed to fully dismantle its nuclear program, halt enrichment activities, or cease support for regional terrorist proxy groups. "Canada stands with the Iranian people in their long and courageous struggle against Iran's oppressive regime," Carney added.
Contrast with Previous Administration
Carney highlighted Canada's designation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist entity and sanctions against 256 Iranian entities and 222 individuals. This stance contrasts sharply with his Liberal predecessor, Justin Trudeau, who resisted listing the IRGC as a terrorist organization for years.
Trudeau maintained this position even after the IRGC shot down Flight PS752 in January 2020, killing 55 Canadians and 30 permanent residents. It wasn't until 2022 that the Liberals shifted their stance, possibly recognizing growing public discontent in Iran and potential political repercussions in Canada.
Support for Allies and Regional Security
Carney demonstrated a clearer understanding of the threat posed by the Iranian regime to global stability. He unequivocally supported Canada's allies, stating: "Canada reaffirms Israel's right to defend itself and to ensure the security of its people. Canada supports the United States acting to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and to prevent its regime from further threatening international peace and security."
The prime minister reiterated this position during a four-day economic trade mission in Mumbai, India, where he addressed a group of business leaders. While the future trajectory of this conflict remains uncertain, Carney's full-throated endorsement of military action against Iran represents a decisive shift in Canadian foreign policy that may not sit well with some members of his own party.
