Liberals hint they'll oppose combat mission in Iraq

Canada could be sending its military into a combat mission in Iraq over the objections of both opposition parties, as Prime Minister Stephen Harper tells the House of Commons Friday what his governments next steps are in the campaign to stop ISIL extremists.

Liberal leader Justin Trudeau issued broad hints Thursday that his party, like the NDP, wont be on-side with a combat role.

On Thursday evening the opposition parties were informed that Harper will deliver a statement in the House on Friday outlining Canadas additional support for counter-terrorism efforts against ISIL, said the Prime Ministers Office.

This group has made direct terrorist threats against Canada and Canadians, in addition to carrying out atrocities against children, women, and men in the region, said Harpers spokesman, Jason MacDonald.

As the prime minister has said before, when we recognize a threat like this that must be addressed, and that involves Canadian interests, we do our part.

He said Harpers statement will outline Canadas contribution to thecounter-terrorism operation, as well as our ongoing humanitarian support. A motion will be introduced in Parliament thatMPs will debate, and vote on, Monday.

In a speech at a conference hosted by think-tank Canada 2020 Thursday, Trudeau agreed that this country must play a role in the battle against ISIL. The Liberal leader spoke in favour of Canada helpingin a variety of ways: non-combat training; airlift transport; medical aid; and humanitarian aid for refugees.

But he said Prime Minister Stephen Harper has not yet explained why a combat mission involving CF-18 fighter bombers should be part of the Canadian response to the crisis.

Trudeauaccused the prime minister of playing politics and refusing to address key questions.

Mr. Harper is intent on taking Canada to war in Iraq. He needs to justify that. He has not made the case for it. He hasnt even tried, Trudeau said.

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Liberals hint they'll oppose combat mission in Iraq

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