Conservative defense critic James Bezan expressed disappointment that the Liberal government did not disclose a reported missile strike on an airbase in Kuwait where Canadian Armed Forces members are stationed. The Canadian section at the Ali Al-salem Air Base was reportedly damaged during the March 1 attack, as per satellite image analysis by La Presse. Fortunately, no Canadian military personnel were harmed.
Bezan criticized the government for lack of transparency in communicating the impact of the war on Canada. While a parliamentary debate on the Iran conflict was called by the Liberals, no mention was made of the attack or damage to the Kuwait base.
The Department of National Defense (DND) took a week to respond to inquiries about the airstrike, citing policy reasons for not disclosing such information. DND spokesperson Lt. Pamela Hogan stated that efforts were made to ensure the safety and security of Canadian Armed Forces members in the region, with all personnel currently safe and located.
Bezan highlighted that Canada’s allies, such as the United States, have been more open about discussing the attacks and their consequences compared to Canada. He criticized the government for being overly secretive.
Prime Minister Mark Carney, when asked about the strikes and the delayed information disclosure, emphasized that Canadian forces in the region were safe and not involved in offensive actions. Defense Minister David McGuinty and Chief of the Defense Staff Gen. Jennie Carignan participated in a cabinet meeting but did not address reporters’ questions.
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand stated she had no information on the Kuwait airbase attack and could not confirm the reports. She mentioned plans to travel abroad for diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions in the Middle East.
Currently, Canada has approximately 200 military personnel stationed at six different locations in the Middle East.