Iran has launched a significant military offensive against Israel, firing dozens of drones and ballistic missiles in what marks a major escalation and the first large-scale assault of its kind by Iran. The action, seen as a retaliatory move, follows the destruction of Iran’s consulate in Syria, an event Iran attributes to Israel. In response to the threat, Israel preemptively closed its airspace.
Israel’s military acknowledged the launch of over 100 drones, but did not confirm encounters with ballistic missiles, which pose a greater challenge to intercept. The exact targets and success of the missile defense remain unclear.
U.S. forces intercepted several Iranian attack drones targeting Israel, amid ongoing defensive efforts and air raid sirens in Jerusalem.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is strongly condemned Iran’s recent airborne attacks on Israel today, emphasizing Canada’s unwavering support for Israel. In a statement Trudeau highlighted that these attacks, which follow Iran’s backing of the October 7 assault by Hamas, threaten regional stability and hinder prospects for lasting peace.
He reiterated Canada’s support for Israel’s right to self-defense and mentioned that he is closely monitoring the situation with updates from Canada’s top security advisors. Trudeau also noted ongoing communication with international allies.
Canada unequivocally condemns Iran’s airborne attacks against Israel – and the Iranian regime’s disregard for peace and stability in the region. My statement:https://t.co/Di77xELVjR
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) April 13, 2024
Yesterday, following the increase in regional hostilities, Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly advised Canadians to avoid travel to Israel and urged those already there to consider leaving through commercial means due to the heightened risks.
With a heightened risk of attacks on Israeli territory, the regional security situation remains highly volatile & could escalate without notice.
We have increased our risk level to “avoid all travel” to Israel+West Bank.
Canadians should consider leaving by commercial means.
— Mélanie Joly (@melaniejoly) April 12, 2024
Meanwhile, a weekly march in support of a permanent ceasefire in Palestine was held in Downtown St. John’s on Saturday afternoon.