Hundreds of Canadians are actively evacuating the Middle East, utilizing planes, buses, and even foot travel as the conflict involving Iran escalates. Global Affairs Canada reports that 9,185 Canadians have registered requests for assistance, with 5,267 seeking help to depart the region.
The conflict, which began with U.S. and Israeli airstrikes, has seen Iran's war targets widen to include civilian infrastructure. Bahrain reported an attack on a desalination plant, while Saudi Arabia confirmed its first casualties. The U.S. and Israel launched airstrikes on February 28, which have resulted in over 1,230 deaths in Iran and significant casualties in Lebanon and Israel.
Canadian government officials are actively involved in facilitating evacuations. Consular staff have been stationed near Iranian borders to assist those crossing. Transportation methods include ground and air routes. On Saturday, 54 Canadians traveled by bus from Qatar to Saudi Arabia, with additional buses scheduled. A chartered flight from Dubai to Istanbul carried 93 Canadians, and multiple commercial flights between Friday and Sunday have transported a total of 154 Canadians.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has maintained a firm stance, stating that increased pressure on Iran will result in a stronger response, asserting the nation will not yield to aggression. He urged neighboring states to avoid involvement, despite U.S. military operations in the region.