Canada's diplomatic break with Iran dates to 2012

Canada has not had diplomatic relations with Iran since Ottawa closed its embassy in Tehran in 2012; Italy now acts as Canada's protecting power in Iran and consular support there is extremely limited amid ongoing unrest.

Canada has not maintained formal diplomatic relations with Iran since Ottawa closed its embassy in Tehran in September 2012. The closure followed years of sanctions and growing Canadian concern about Iran's nuclear activities and regional actions. Italy was named as Canada's protecting power in Iran to provide limited diplomatic and emergency consular assistance. With recent unrest in Iran, Canadian officials say consular capacity is very limited and land routes to neighbouring countries are being used for access to support. What is known: - Canada suspended diplomatic ties and closed its embassy in Tehran in 2012. - Italy serves as Canada's protecting power in Iran, while Switzerland represents Iran's interests in Canada. - Ottawa introduced sanctions beginning in 2010, partially eased some after the 2015 JCPOA, and later reimposed measures, including listing the IRGC under the Criminal Code in 2024. - Because there is no Canadian embassy in Tehran, consular assistance is limited; officials note land crossings to Turkey and Armenia remain available and Global Affairs Canada operates an emergency watch centre. Summary: The absence of diplomatic relations means Ottawa has constrained channels for consular support and relies on a protecting power for limited services. Undetermined at this time.