Thousands Rally Outside U.S. Embassy in Ottawa Following Iran Strikes
Downtown Ottawa became the site of a significant public gathering on Saturday as approximately 1,000 people assembled outside the United States Embassy following major U.S.–Israeli military strikes on Iran.
The demonstration, which unfolded peacefully, reflected the deep divisions within Ottawa's Iranian community as news of the strikes — and reports of significant casualties — continued to develop.
The Scene Downtown
Demonstrators waved the Lion and Sun flag, draped themselves in American and Israeli flags, and held photographs of exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi. Chants of "Thank you USA" and "Thank you Israel" echoed through the downtown streets as some in the crowd expressed hope for what they described as possible regime change in Iran.
Organizers and attendees said they felt the strikes could mark the beginning of an end to decades of authoritarian rule. The Lion and Sun flag — associated with Iran's pre-Islamic Republic era — has become a symbol for Iranians calling for regime change.
A Community Divided
The gathering, however, did not reflect a unified response from Ottawa's Iranian-Canadian community.
Some Iranian Canadians expressed fear for family members still living in Iran, worried about retaliation, internet shutdowns, and civilian casualties in the aftermath of the strikes. Others cautioned that genuine change must come from within Iran, warning that military intervention historically leads to prolonged suffering rather than swift liberation.
"Some Iranians have taken to the streets celebrating, expressing hope that the death of a leader they associate with repression and economic hardship could mean change," noted one observer. "Others are fearful, worried about retaliation, instability, and what comes next."
Canadian Government Response
Canadian political leaders responded quickly to the escalation. Prime Minister Mark Carney and Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand stated that Canada supports efforts to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons while urging the protection of civilians.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre voiced support for dismantling Iran's nuclear program, while NDP interim leader Don Davies criticized the strikes as a violation of international law.
Context
The strikes marked one of the most significant military escalations in the region in decades, with Iran launching retaliatory missiles and drones toward U.S. and Israeli bases following the initial attacks. The situation continues to develop, with international leaders calling for restraint and de-escalation.
For Ottawa's Iranian community — one of Canada's largest — the events represent a deeply personal reckoning, regardless of political position.
