OTTAWA — Opposition leaders blasted Prime Minister Mark Carney for missing a debate on Canada’s position on the war in Iran and the Middle East on Monday evening amid sharp criticism about Carney’s evolving position on the conflict. Carney’s office downplayed his absence because it is a “take note” debate (which allows MPs to share their views of the topic being debated), but opposition party leaders were swift to condemn his absence on Monday. Christine Normandin, the Bloc Québécois’ house leader, told reporters that Carney’s absence shows his “disinterest” in the work of Parliament and accountability. On Monday, Poilievre told reporters he would attend the evening’s debate and reaffirmed his party’s support for the joint U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran. He also called on the Liberals to cancel the Clean Fuel Standard in the face of rising oil prices due to the war in Iran.

Source: National Post March 09, 2026 20:26 UTC