The Canadian Muslim Public Affairs Council (CMPAC) urges the Government of Canada to immediately and unequivocally condemn Israel’s recent airstrikes on Iran as a blatant and illegal violation of international law and the UN Charter. All U.N. member states are obligated to refrain from the use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of another state. “Preemptive” or “preventive” strikes, such as those targeting Iranian nuclear and military sites, are impermissible unless an armed attack has already occurred, and cannot be justified under international law.

These airstrikes resulted in the deaths of at least 78 people, including civilians and military personnel, causing significant destruction to critical infrastructure, including missile sites and residential buildings, further destabilizing the region. This loss of life and destruction is unacceptable and underscores the devastating humanitarian toll of Israel’s aggressions.

The Russian Foreign Ministry has denounced the strikes as “unprovoked and unacceptable,” and the UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned they dangerously escalate regional tensions. Israel has repeatedly carried out cross-border strikes in Lebanon and Syria, alongside the ongoing genocidal operation in Gaza, with complete disregard for international law. This pattern of aggression, carried out without consequences, reflects Israel’s status as a rogue state acting with impunity and undermines global stability and the safety of Canadian interests.

CMPAC calls on the Government of Canada to take immediate and concrete action by:

  • Issuing a public condemnation of Israel’s unlawful airstrikes and affirming that Canada does not support unilateral military aggression or violations of another state’s sovereignty.
  • Calling for international accountability, through the UN General Assembly and the International Court of Justice.
  • Reevaluating Canada’s bilateral relationship with Israel, including military, security, and trade agreements, to ensure Canadian policies do not enable aggression.
  • Coordinating with international partners to build a unified response that upholds international law and prevents further escalation in the region.

The international community, including the UN and respected states, has condemned these strikes as “unacceptable” and “illegal.” We call on the Canadian government to join these voices by publicly condemning Israel’s actions. By taking this stand, Canada can uphold international law, protect regional stability, and reaffirm its commitment to a rules-based global order where no country is above the law and violations carry consequences.