U.S. and Israel Strike Iran as Canada Backs Efforts to Block Nuclear Program

(Horizon Weekly) – In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, the United States and Israel launched coordinated military strikes against Iran on Saturday, with explosions reported in Tehran and other strategic locations. U.S. officials described the operation as major combat action targeting key military infrastructure, while Israeli authorities framed it as part of ongoing efforts to counter Iran’s regional activities and nuclear ambitions.

Within hours, Iran reportedly responded with missile and drone launches toward U.S. and allied positions in the region, prompting heightened alerts and airspace closures across parts of the Middle East. International airlines suspended flights, and reports from inside Iran described long lines at gas stations and widespread uncertainty among civilians.

The confrontation comes amid months of internal unrest in Iran and longstanding tensions over Tehran’s nuclear program and regional influence. Diplomatic efforts in recent years, including discussions among major powers, have failed to produce a lasting breakthrough.

Ottawa quickly weighed in on the unfolding crisis. In a joint statement issued February 28, Prime Minister Mark Carney and Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said Canada is closely monitoring “Iran-related hostilities” and urged all Canadians in Iran to shelter in place, while advising those elsewhere in the region to follow local guidance and take necessary precautions.

Carney’s government reiterated its long-standing position that the Islamic Republic of Iran is a principal source of instability in the Middle East, citing its human rights record and nuclear program. The statement stressed that Iran must never be allowed to obtain or develop nuclear weapons and confirmed Canada’s support for U.S. actions aimed at preventing that outcome. Canada also reaffirmed Israel’s right to defend itself and highlighted its previous designation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist entity, along with extensive sanctions against Iranian individuals and institutions.

At the same time, Ottawa called for the protection of civilians and pledged to take all possible measures to safeguard Canadian nationals and diplomatic missions in the region.

As the situation continues to evolve, the risk of broader regional conflict remains high, with significant implications for global security, energy markets and international diplomacy.