Since the weekend of February 28, 2026, the Middle East has faced a dramatic military escalation following joint U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. According to Global News, the operation targeted Iran’s leadership, nuclear facilities, and missile infrastructure. Iranian state media confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, along with Defence Minister Amir Nasirzadeh and Revolutionary Guards Commander Mohammed Pakpour.
In response, Iran launched hundreds of missiles and drones across the region, striking U.S. military assets and infrastructure in Gulf states such as Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UAE reported intercepting over 1,000 attacks. On March 3, a suspected Iranian drone hit the U.S. Consulate in Dubai, while the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia also came under fire (CTV News).
The humanitarian toll is rising. The Iranian Red Crescent reported 555 deaths by March 2, with severe damage to government buildings, hospitals, and courts in Tehran. Hezbollah in Lebanon has also fired on Israel, leading to heavy counterstrikes in Beirut and southern Lebanon.
Canada has taken a strong political stance. Prime Minister Mark Carney and Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand expressed support for U.S.-Israeli objectives but confirmed Canada will not join militarily. Instead, the government is focused on consular support and citizen safety. Global Affairs Canada has warned against travel to 11 countries, including Iran, Israel, and the UAE, and reports nearly 97,000 Canadians are currently in the region (The Star).
Rapid Deployment Teams are in nearby countries to assist with evacuations if needed, though officials stress there is no government-led evacuation plan at present. Canadians in Iran have been advised to shelter in place due to limited consular services.
While the situation remains fluid, Canada and international partners are calling for a ceasefire and renewed diplomacy to prevent further civilian casualties and regional instability.
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