Canada Deports One Iranian Official, Faces Pressure to Remove More Linked to IRGC
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree is defending the federal government’s pace of deporting individuals linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), after revealing only one official has been removed despite 24 being deemed inadmissible to Canada.
Anandasangaree faced questioning from members of a parliamentary committee on Tuesday regarding the leisurely rate of deportations, particularly as concerns grow over Iranian activity within Canada and amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran .
IRGC Listed as Terrorist Entity
The IRGC was designated a terrorist entity under the Canadian Criminal Code in 2024 . Canada is “aggressively trying to remove” members of the organization, Anandasangaree stated, but emphasized the need to follow due process .
Deportation Numbers and Challenges
As of March 5, three individuals had received deportation orders, with only one having been removed from Canada . Anandasangaree indicated another removal is expected “very shortly,” and six individuals have voluntarily left the country .
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has reported reviewing approximately 17,800 visa applications and cancelling 239 visas .
Due Process and Coercion Concerns
Anandasangaree highlighted the legal standard and due process requirements that must be adhered to when dealing with alleged IRGC members . CBSA President Erin O’Gorman explained that the agency must consider potential coercion related to mandatory military service in Iran, which can impact Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) cases .
CSIS and Foreign Interference Concerns
The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) has also increased its focus on countering Iranian intelligence activities within Canada, including potentially lethal threats against individuals perceived as threats to the Iranian regime . A public inquiry into foreign interference noted that Iran primarily focuses on transnational repression and harassment rather than direct intervention in Canadian elections .
The IRGC’s past actions, including the downing of Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752 in 2020, which resulted in the deaths of 55 Canadian citizens and 30 permanent residents, have further heightened concerns .