Statement by Minister of National Defence Jason Kenney

Statement

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May 21, 2015

Department of National Defence

Ottawa

Defence Minister Jason Kenney issued the following statement:

> “Yesterday, while taking part in coalition operations against ISIS, two CF-18 Hornets successfully led an air strike on an ISIS staging area north of Ar-Raqqah, Syria, using precision guided munitions.

> “While assessment of the damage continues, I can confirm that our Royal Canadian Air Force crew and aircraft have safely returned to base.

> “Canadian Armed Forces remain committed to the task at hand. We are operating under the mandate of the Government of Canada and as part of an international Coalition, in support of Iraqi forces’ ground operations. 

> “These strikes demonstrate our Government's firm resolve to tackle the threat of terrorism against Canada and to promote international security and stability. As a trusted partner of the Coalition, we will continue to work with our allies and partners to bring stability to the region.”