NDP statement on U.S. attacks on Iran

NDP critic for Foreign Affairs and Defence Heather McPherson issued the following statement:

“On June 17, New Democrats released a statement calling on Mark Carney to push for a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. We expressed our urgent concern that Trump would soon join this war and escalate a terrifying situation further.

Last night, Trump indeed attacked Iran, a use of force that is illegal under both U.S. and international law.

New Democrats condemn this action by Trump and call for immediate de-escalation and a return of all parties to diplomatic talks. There is no military solution to this crisis.

Once again, we reiterate that millions of people - including Canadians trapped in the region - will pay the price for the actions of these warmongers.

We amplify the calls of peace and human rights activists like Iranian Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi:

“I raise my voice, as a defender of peace, democracy, and human rights, to say “No to war.” I do so because I firmly believe that democracy and peace will not emerge from the dark and terrifying corridors of war and violence. War destroys the capacity and the momentum of the people’s struggle for the establishment and consolidation of democracy.”

As always, New Democrats call on Canada to do the hard work of building peace. Canada must defend international law, must condemn this illegal escalation of violence, must work towards nuclear disarmament, and must refuse any calls to join in this senseless and destructive path.

People first. No More War.”