According to a report from Canadian website Global News, Public Security Minister Dominic Leblanc said in a press statement that the decision to include the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps on the “list of terrorist organizations” came after a “careful assessment.”
“My government will not ignore Iran’s illegal activities and support for terrorism,” Leblanc said in a statement released by some of his cabinet members.
Responding to opposition criticism that “the decision was delayed and taken under pressure,” Leblanc said, “Such decisions were taken on the advice of our national security agencies and in accordance with our country’s foreign policy. This is a lengthy process based on detailed negotiations…” he said.
Foreign Minister urges Iranians to return home
In a statement after the decision was announced, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly warned Canadians in Iran to leave the country.
“My message is very clear: for anyone who is in Iran right now, it’s time to go home,” Jolie said, using her own words to warn those planning to travel to Iran: “Don’t go.”
In a May vote, the Canadian House of Commons unanimously supported a proposal to add the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps to the “terrorist organization list,” recommending a move in this direction.
