Six years have passed since the skies over Tehran turned into a scene of unimaginable horror, but for the families of the 176 lives lost on Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752, the pain remains as sharp as ever. On January 8, 2026, communities across Canada and around the world paused to remember the victims of the catastrophic downing, an act for which the Iranian military later admitted responsibility.
A Day of Remembrance and Unresolved Grief
The anniversary serves as a sombre milestone for the Canadian families, who lost 55 citizens and 30 permanent residents in the disaster. Memorials were held, including gatherings within the Iranian-Canadian community, where candles were lit and names were read aloud, honouring those who perished. The scene echoed past vigils, such as the one held in Toronto on January 7, 2024, where community members gathered in shared grief, a testament to the enduring nature of their loss.
The tragedy occurred on January 8, 2020, shortly after takeoff from Tehran's Imam Khomeini International Airport. The Boeing 737-800 was struck by two surface-to-air missiles launched by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps amid heightened tensions following a U.S. drone strike. All 176 passengers and crew, including many students, academics, and entire families with ties to Canada, were killed instantly.
The Long Road to Accountability
Despite the passage of six years, the pursuit of full accountability and transparent justice remains fraught with obstacles. While Iran initially denied responsibility, mounting international pressure and evidence forced a reluctant admission days later, attributing the shootdown to "human error." However, this explanation has been widely rejected by the victims' families and the Canadian government, who demand a thorough, independent investigation and legal recourse.
Canada, alongside Ukraine, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, formed the International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of PS752. The group has consistently called for Iran to engage meaningfully in negotiations for reparations and to allow a transparent judicial process. To date, families report that Iran has failed to provide credible answers, compensate victims fairly, or hold senior officials to account in a manner that meets international standards.
An Enduring Legacy and a Call for Action
For the families, the anniversary is not just about remembrance; it is a renewed call to action. They continue to advocate for a United Nations-led international investigation, as they have lost faith in Iran's internal processes. Their fight has also spurred discussions on aviation safety in conflict zones and the need for stronger international mechanisms to address state-sponsored atrocities.
The pain of January 8th is now woven into Canada's national fabric. The victims are remembered as individuals with bright futures tragically cut short, and their families' resilience has become a powerful force for advocacy. As another year passes, their message remains clear: the world must not forget Flight PS752, and the quest for truth and justice, though painfully slow, must continue until it is fully realized.
