Question Period Note: OPERATION IMPACT

Why is the Canadian Armed Forces training war criminals in Iraq, and how is it ensuring proper treatment of detainees?

• Canada’s contribution to Operation IMPACT has been essential to countering Daesh, and fostering security and stability in the Middle East.
• Since 2018, the Canadian Armed Forced have trained more than 4500 Iraqi Security Forces members to fight terrorism and stabilize Iraq.
• We take all incidents regarding compliance with the Law of Armed Conflict seriously, and take proper actions to address issues that arise.
• The Canadian Armed Forces is currently investigating recent allegations regarding violations of the Law of Armed Conflict.
• We remain committed to working with partner forces to foster security and stability in the Middle East.

If pressed on assessments for the transfer of detainees:
* Canada is proud of its contribution to NATO Mission Iraq.
* The Canadian Armed Forces always ensures it handles detainees in compliance with Canadian and international laws.
* No detainees were taken while Canada was in command of NATO Mission Iraq between 2018 and 2020.
* The Canadian Armed Forces remain committed to working with our partners and allies in the region.

QUICK FACTS
OP IMPACT
* March 30, 2021, Canada announced the extension of Operation IMPACT until 31 March 2022.
* November 24, 2020, Canada transferred command of NATO Mission Iraq to Denmark.
* Canada had commanded the NATO training and capacity building mission since the fall of 2018.

GBA+
* LCdr Calley Gray, from MARPAC in Esquimalt, as the Gender Advisor for the NATO Mission in Iraq plays a key role in delivering training and workshops on topics such as Women, Peace, and Security, and gender perspectives.

Responsible Principals: Canadian Joint Operations Command, Canadian Special Operations Forces Command