Ottawa confirmed that a Canadian citizen was killed by Iranian authorities during recent nationwide protests, though few details have been released. Foreign Minister Anita Anand announced the death on X and condemned the killing. Global Affairs Canada says consular staff have contacted the family and urged the roughly 3,000 Canadians in Iran to leave if it is safe to do so.
Canadian Killed During Iran Protests, Ottawa Says — Government Urges Canadians To Leave If Safe
A man stands in the wreckage of a burned bus in Tehran's Sadeghieh Square on January 15, 2026 (ATTA KENARE)(ATTA KENARE/AFP/AFP)
Ottawa said Thursday that a Canadian citizen was killed by Iranian authorities during one of the protests sweeping the Islamic Republic. The government confirmed the death but provided few operational details.
"I have just learned that a Canadian citizen has died in Iran at the hands of Iranian authorities," Canada's Foreign Minister Anita Anand wrote on X, without offering further information.
An unnamed Canadian foreign ministry official speaking on background told AFP that Ottawa understands the individual was killed while taking part in a protest. In a separate statement, Global Affairs Canada said consular officials have been in contact with the deceased person's family in Canada and are providing support.
"Canada strongly condemns the horrific killing of protesters in Iran," the ministry said, adding: "Canadians in Iran should leave now if they can do so safely." Ottawa estimates roughly 3,000 Canadians remain in the Islamic Republic.
Details about the circumstances and the identity of the deceased remain limited as Canadian officials continue to gather information. Travelers and Canadians in Iran are advised to follow travel advisories and consular guidance closely.
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