Carney condemns Iran crackdown as protests near two-week mark

Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned reported violence and arbitrary arrests in Iran, and Canada updated its travel advice urging Canadians to avoid travel to Iran and advising those in Iran to leave if they can do so safely.

Canada has publicly condemned Iran's response to nationwide demonstrations as they approach two weeks. Prime Minister Mark Carney said reports of violence, arbitrary arrests and intimidation are profoundly concerning. The federal government updated travel guidance and advised Canadians in Iran to leave if they can do so safely. Iran is reported to have restricted internet and phone services, limiting independent verification of events. Key facts: - Prime Minister Mark Carney posted on X condemning reports of violence, arbitrary arrests and intimidation by Iranian authorities. - The federal government updated travel advice to advise against all travel to Iran and said consular services there are extremely limited; Canadians in Iran are being advised to leave if they can do so safely. - Communications in Iran are reported to be restricted, which limits outside information about the scope and nature of the demonstrations. - The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reported at least 72 people killed and more than 2,300 detained; these figures are reported by that outlet. Summary: Canada's statement signals diplomatic concern and the travel advisory seeks to reduce Canadian presence amid heightened tensions. Communication restrictions and limited consular capacity make external assessment difficult. Undetermined at this time.