Canada Provided Support for US-British Strikes in Yemen

Ottawa, Canada has provided support in planning the US-British ‘precision strikes’ against Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. However, no Canadian military equipment was used in the attacks. The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel deployed within the US Central Command aided in the ‘planning’ as part of the Operation Foundation, stated the Ministry of National Defense on Friday.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed that Canada supported what the US and UK have done but did not offer any operational resources for the strikes.

The strikes were targeted to prevent the Houthis from targeting maritime routes, which is considered ‘absolutely unacceptable and dangerous’. Canada is calling on the Houthis to cease their attacks immediately and take responsibility for their actions.

The military action has the full support of Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre. On the other hand, some US lawmakers, including Democrats, criticized President Joe Biden for not consulting Congress prior to the action. In Canada, NDP MP Heather McPherson expressed a similar sentiment, stating that the Liberals are making dangerous choices without consulting Parliament.

Canada’s contribution to the operation was first revealed by Washington and the official announcement from Canada came hours later on Thursday. The strikes were carried out by the US and UK armed forces in collaboration with Canada, Australia, Bahrain, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, New Zealand, and South Korea. The nations stated their objective was to de-escalate tensions and restore stability in the Red Sea, emphasizing their commitment to defending lives and free trade in international waterways.