Canadian Defence Minister Anita Anand has stated that Canada's objective regarding the Strait of Hormuz is to de-escalate regional tensions and ensure the vital waterway remains open. Her comments come amid ongoing international concerns over maritime security in the region.
"Our objective is to de-escalate the situation and ensure freedom of navigation," Anand said, according to a verified statement from the Department of National Defence. She emphasized that any blockade of the strait would be contrary to international law.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global chokepoint for oil shipments. Anand did not reference any specific recent attack by the United States on Iran in her official remarks. Canada participates in multinational maritime security initiatives, such as Operation ARTEMIS, which focuses on counter-terrorism and interdiction in the Arabian Sea and surrounding regions.
The minister's statement underscores Canada's diplomatic and operational focus on upholding international maritime law and supporting stability in the Middle East through multilateral cooperation.
