Ottawa, January 2026: As nationwide protests in Iran enter their second week, Canada has strongly criticised what it describes as an escalating and violent crackdown by Iranian authorities on demonstrators.
Prime Minister Mark Carney, in a post on social media platform X, denounced the Iranian regime’s response to the unrest, expressing deep concern over reports of violence and repression.
“The reports of violence, arbitrary arrests, and intimidation tactics by the Iranian regime against its own people are profoundly concerning,” Carney said. He added that Canada “strongly condemns the killing of protesters” and urged Iranian authorities to respect freedom of expression and allow peaceful assembly without fear of retaliation.
In response to the deteriorating situation, the Canadian government has updated its travel advisory, urging citizens to avoid all travel to Iran. The advisory cites ongoing nationwide demonstrations, rising regional tensions, the risk of arbitrary detention, and the unpredictable enforcement of local laws.
Canadians currently in Iran have been advised to leave the country if it is safe to do so. The government noted that many international airlines have suspended flights to and from Iran, though limited overland exit options remain available. Ottawa also cautioned that its capacity to provide consular assistance inside Iran is extremely restricted.
Iranian authorities have acknowledged that protests are continuing, even as security forces intensify efforts to suppress them. The country remains largely isolated, with widespread reports of internet shutdowns and disrupted phone services, making independent verification of events difficult.
According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, at least 72 people have been killed since the protests began, while more than 2,300 individuals have been detained.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has indicated that a tougher response may be forthcoming, despite growing international criticism. The unrest has drawn global attention, with several countries issuing statements of concern.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also commented on the situation, stating on X that the United States “supports the brave people of Iran” amid the ongoing demonstrations.
