Canadians urged to leave parts of Middle East as risk of conflict rises: Anand – National
Canada’s foreign affairs minister is urging Canadians in parts of the Middle East to consider leaving while trade routes are still available, warning that Ottawa’s ability to provide aid during an active conflict will be limited.
In a statement released late Friday, Anita Anand said the security situation in parts of the region remains “volatile and unpredictable,” and advised Canadians to remain vigilant, monitor local and international media, and follow the instructions of local authorities, including any shelter-in-place orders.
The statement says Canadians in Israel, Palestine and Lebanon should consider leaving while trade options are still available.
This comes as US President Donald Trump said on Friday that he was “not happy” with the latest talks about Iran’s nuclear program but indicated that he would give the negotiators more time to reach an agreement to prevent another war in the Middle East.
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As US forces mass in the region, Trump has threatened military action if Iran does not agree to a far-reaching deal on its nuclear program, while Iran insists it has the right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes and denies seeking a nuclear weapon.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has long urged the US to take strong action against Iran, and has warned that Israel will respond to any attack by Iran.
Canadians in Iran are being urged to leave as soon as possible if it is safe to do so. The federal government notes that there is no Canadian embassy in Iran and that its ability to provide consular services is very limited, particularly during the ongoing conflict.
Anand also warned that Canada’s ability to force people to evacuate or flee during conflict may be limited.
The statement says Canadians in the region are advised to prepare emergency plans that do not rely on the Government of Canada for evacuation assistance.
The minister said the safety and security of Canadians at home and abroad remains a priority in this country. He encouraged travelers to monitor official travel advisories for their destination and to register with the Canadians Abroad Registration service for updates. Those who have already registered are asked to ensure that their contact details are correct.
-via files from the Associated Press
