Canada strongly condemned Hezbollah’s deadly attack on an IDF convoy Wednesday, and reiterated its belief in Israel’s right to defend itself from “brutal terrorist organizations.”

Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird, fresh from his recent trip to Israel, issued the statement Wednesday night. 

“Canada condemns the assault by Hezbollah on the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) that tragically killed two IDF members. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of those lost and injured.” 

“Canada also extends its condolences to the family and friends of the Spanish UN peacekeeper killed in the exchange.” 

“Hezbollah, another Iranian proxy, is a brutal terrorist organization bent on the destruction of Israel. Canada fully supports Israel’s right to defend itself by itself.”

Continuing, Baird criticized the “destructive force” of Iran and accused it of working toward Israel’s annihilation. 

“This is just another example of the threats Israel faces – from Gaza to Southern Lebanon and Syria – from all proxies funded, trained and materially supported by Iran. It illustrates the danger of a nuclear-armed Iran and the need for the international community to ensure that never becomes a reality.”

“Iran is a destructive force in the region, contributing to much of the current instability. The international community must condemn today’s assault and stand by the only liberal democracy in the region, which is far too often on the front lines in the struggle against terrorism.”

Canada’s southern neighbor, the United States, also stood by Israel Wednesday as it exchanged fire with Hezbollah terrorists in Lebanon.

“We support Israel’s legitimate right to self-defense and continue to urge all parties to respect the blue line between Israel and Lebanon,” State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki told reporters.

“We urge all parties to refrain from any action that could escalate the situation,” Psaki said, adding Washington was closely monitoring the situation.