Article content continued

“The determination shown by Canada is of great importance in order for the Iranians to understand that they cannot go on with their race toward nuclear arms. This practical step must set an example of international morality and responsibility to the international community,” he said.

A message posted on the Iranian embassy’s website claimed it had been forced to close because of the ‘hostile’ actions of the Canadian government: “Due to the hostile (belligerent) decision taken by the Canadian government, the embassy of the Islamic republic of Iran is now closed and we are unable to provide further consular service to our dear Iranian nationals. Please refrain from sending any documents to the consular services,” the note in Farsi read.

Relations between Canada and Iran have been sour since the 1979 Islamic Revolution but have worsened in recent years as Ottawa has confronted Tehran over its support for terrorism, nuclear ambitions, anti-Israeli rhetoric and human rights abuses.

Meanwhile, Iran has taken to attacking Canada over its treatment of First Nations. In July, the government warned Iran to stop using its embassy in Ottawa to recruit Iranian-Canadians to serve its interests.

“Canada’s position on the regime in Iran is well known. Canada views the Government of Iran as the most significant threat to global peace and security in the world today,” Mr. Baird said.

“The Iranian regime is providing increasing military assistance to the Assad regime; it refuses to comply with UN resolutions pertaining to its nuclear program; it routinely threatens the existence of Israel and engages in racist anti-Semitic rhetoric and incitement to genocide; it is among the world’s worst violators of human rights; and it shelters and materially supports terrorist groups, requiring the Government of Canada to formally list Iran as a state sponsor of terrorism under the Justice for Victims of Terrorism Act.