Key Takeaways
• Canadian citizen killed during Iranian protest ||| • Ottawa condemns crackdown on demonstrators ||| • Travel warning urges Canadians to leave Iran
Authorities Report Two Deaths during Anti-Government Protest
On Thursday, Canada reported the death of one Canadian national during ongoing demonstrations against Iran’s ruling authorities, amid growing international condemnation over how they deal with protestors and dissidence. The incident took place amid ongoing opposition protests challenging Tehran’s crackdown against any form of discontent within their society.
Anita Anand, Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister, confirmed in public statement the death, saying she had received information that a Canadian national had perished at the hands of Iranian authorities. No further details regarding exact circumstances, location and timing have been disclosed at this point in time.
Ottawa Assumes Responsibility for Iranian Officials in Ottawa
Canada’s foreign ministry later released information gathered by Canadian officials that indicated an individual was shot and killed during a demonstration by Iranian security forces, prompting Ottawa to denounce Tehran for violent repression and excessive use of force against demonstrators protests.
Minister Anand firmly condemned Iran’s leadership for their disregard of human life and violence, emphasizing Canada’s unequivocal condemnation of such actions. She called for immediate cessation of crackdown against protesters.
Condemnation of Human Rights Infringements
Canadian officials stressed the fact that peaceful demonstrations by Iranians seeking their voices to be heard have been met with systematic repression and ongoing human rights violations, according to Anand. He attributed such behaviour as part of an alarming pattern of abuse within Iran that continues to alarm international partners.
Protests across multiple cities have already seen many casualties and arrests, drawing condemnation from various governments and human rights organizations.
Travel Warning Issued for Canadians
Due to Iran’s worsening security environment, Canada’s Foreign Ministry is encouraging Canadian nationals currently living there to leave immediately and return home as quickly as possible. Official estimates place approximately 3,000 Canadian nationals within Iran who should leave immediately due to increased risks.
