Canadian government urges citizens to avoid travel to Israel amid military conflict with Iran

Amid the exchange of missiles and airstrikes between Israel and Iran, the Canadian federal government has issued an emergency warning: "refrain from all travel to Israel."

Canada's Department of Foreign Affairs explained the decision by the escalation of hostilities and ongoing fighting in Israel. Citizens in the Middle East who require emergency assistance are urged to immediately contact Global Affairs Canada.

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand condemned Iran's attack on Israel in a statement and called on both sides to exercise restraint. Her statement came hours after the exchange of strikes between the countries began.

The conflict escalated after Israel launched a surprise, large-scale attack on nuclear and military facilities in Iran on Friday, killing several high-ranking Iranian generals. Iran responded with a series of missile strikes on Israeli facilities. Israel's defense minister has warned that "Tehran will burn" if Iranian attacks continue.

Canadian authorities continue to closely monitor the situation.