Canada confirms death of Canadian citizen amid Iran protests, condemns state violence

Canada’s foreign affairs department has confirmed the death of a Canadian citizen in Iran as widespread anti-government protests continue across the country. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said the federal government has received information indicating the individual died at the hands of Iranian authorities.

Anand said Canada strongly condemns the use of violence by the Iranian government against protesters and civilians, and is calling for an immediate end to the crackdown. The confirmation comes amid heightened international concern over arrests, injuries, and deaths linked to demonstrations opposing Iran’s leadership.

Global Affairs Canada said consular officials are in contact with a family member of the deceased in Canada. Due to privacy considerations, officials said no further details about the individual’s identity can be released at this time.

According to a spokesperson for the department, as of Wednesday, 3,054 Canadian citizens and permanent residents were registered as being in Iran, although officials noted the actual number may be higher. Canada does not have diplomatic relations with Iran, limiting its ability to provide direct consular assistance on the ground.

The federal government has previously urged Canadians to leave Iran immediately, citing escalating protests, arbitrary detentions, and security risks. A recent travel advisory noted that Canadian passport holders can exit Iran by land through Armenia and Turkey, where visas are not required.