Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said on Thursday that Canada could potentially take part militarily in the escalating conflict involving Iran, though he emphasised that no decision has been taken.

Speaking during a joint appearance with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Canberra, Carney said it would be impossible to completely rule out Canada’s military participation if the situation deteriorates further.

“One can never categorically rule out participation,” Carney said when asked whether Canada might join any military operations linked to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

He added that Canada would continue to coordinate closely with its allies and partners as the regional situation evolves.

“We will stand by our allies,” Carney said, while stressing that diplomatic engagement and de-escalation remain Canada’s preferred approach.

Carney’s remarks come amid heightened tensions following recent military strikes by the United States and Israel targeting sites in Iran, which have drawn international concern about a potential wider regional war.

Earlier, the Canadian leader had expressed reservations about the legality of those attacks, saying the strikes appeared “inconsistent with international law”. His comments highlighted growing debate among Western allies over how to respond to the rapidly intensifying conflict.

Canada has historically worked closely with NATO partners and has previously contributed forces to coalition operations in the Middle East, including missions in Iraq and against extremist groups in the region.

While Ottawa has not announced any troop deployments related to the current crisis, officials say Canada is closely monitoring developments and consulting with allies.

The conflict has raised fears of a broader confrontation that could draw in multiple countries and further destabilise an already volatile Middle East.