Canada PM Declares US-Israel Strikes On Iran Violate International Law

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Wednesday described the recent US-Israeli strikes on Iran as “inconsistent with international law” and called for a rapid de-escalation of the ongoing conflict. Speaking at the Lowy Institute think tank in Sydney, Carney said Canada reaffirmed that international law binds all belligerents and stressed the need for restraint in the Middle East.

Carney clarified that while Canada supported efforts to change Iran’s government, which he described as a “principal source of instability and terror” in the region, the unilateral military action bypassed both the United Nations and allied consultations. “It would appear, prima facie, not to be consistent or to be inconsistent with international law,” he said, adding that the judgement was for legal experts to determine.

The remarks came on the second day of Carney’s official visit to Australia, part of a broader Asia-Pacific tour aimed at strengthening economic ties and reducing reliance on the United States. Carney, a former central banker, has previously criticised US trade policies and warned of a “rupture” in the US-led global order, highlighting Canada’s desire to hedge against increasing geopolitical uncertainty.

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Since the attacks on Saturday, Iran has launched retaliatory missile and drone strikes across the Middle East, targeting US facilities and escalating regional tensions. Hezbollah in Lebanon has also carried out attacks on Israel in response to the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, further deepening the regional crisis.

Carney expressed regret that international efforts to disarm Iran had failed and highlighted that the US and Israel had not engaged the UN or consulted allies, including Canada, prior to the operation. “Canada calls for a rapid de-escalation of hostilities and is prepared to assist in achieving this goal,” he said, emphasising the importance of diplomacy alongside security considerations.

During the visit, Carney is scheduled to meet with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and address parliament in Canberra, focusing on economic security, critical minerals, and defence cooperation. Albanese’s office has described Carney as a like-minded leader, signalling shared priorities in trade, investment, and regional stability.

Also Read: Global Leaders Urge Caution, Diplomacy After US-Israel Strikes Kill Iran’s Supreme Leader