During a press conference in Canberra, Australia, on March 5, 2026, Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized that while he views the situation as hypothetical, he will not rule out Canada’s military participation in increasing hostilities in the Middle East. This declaration comes in the wake of a massive U.S.-Israeli strike that resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Carney addressed the implications of these military engagements, stating, “One can never categorically rule out participation,” underscoring Canada’s solidarity with its allies. However, he expressed regret over the strikes, labeling them as “inconsistent with international law.”

The Prime Minister maintains a firm stance on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, positioning this as a priority for both Canada and its global partners. He called for urgent de-escalation of tensions, recognizing the dire need for diplomatic solutions amid rising conflict.

In his address, Carney articulated the challenges faced by “middle powers,” such as Canada and Australia, urging these nations to collaborate and shape the evolving global order instead of allowing more powerful countries to dominate it. “In this brave new world, middle powers cannot simply build higher walls and retreat behind them,” he asserted.

Carney's visit to Australia is part of a broader tour aimed at solidifying bilateral ties and attracting investments while addressing the complexities of an increasingly multipolar world. As the conflict in the Middle East intensifies, Canada’s role and response remain under close scrutiny.