G7 Urges Middle East De-escalation as Trump Leaves Summit Early Amid Israel-Iran Tensions
At a tense G7 summit in Kananaskis, Canada, global leaders issued a joint appeal for a “de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East,” including a ceasefire in Gaza. However, they stopped short of calling for an outright ceasefire between Israel and Iran, reflecting divisions within the group as the conflict intensifies.
Trump’s Sudden Exit Sparks Speculation
US President Donald Trump signed the G7 statement but abruptly left the summit early. While his press secretary attributed the move to “events in the Middle East,” Trump himself described the reason as “big stuff,” denying any link to a ceasefire deal.
Trump had earlier taken to Truth Social to urge Iranians to “immediately evacuate Tehran,” a cryptic warning that sparked global speculation of US military involvement alongside Israel. Officials in Washington have denied plans to join Israel’s offensive, despite US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announcing additional deployments to the region.
G7 Balances Support for Israel With Diplomatic Caution
The G7 communiqué reaffirmed Israel’s right to self-defense and accused Iran of fueling regional instability, stressing that Tehran must never acquire a nuclear weapon. The statement called for a broader diplomatic resolution but deliberately avoided harsher language, likely to maintain unity among the G7 nations.
French President Emmanuel Macron voiced hope that the US could help mediate a ceasefire. However, Trump later lashed out at Macron online, accusing him of falsely suggesting ceasefire talks were underway.
“Wrong! He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington… Much bigger than that,” Trump wrote.
Regional Escalation: Airstrikes, Missiles, and Media Attacks
As the summit unfolded, fresh violence erupted in the Middle East. Israeli strikes reportedly targeted Iran’s state broadcaster, forcing live presenters off-air. Explosions and anti-aircraft fire lit up the skies over Tehran, while missile sirens sounded across Tel Aviv.
According to Iran’s health ministry, over 224 Iranians have been killed since Israel began its offensive, while at least 24 deaths have been reported in Israel.
Diplomatic Fallout and Missed Meetings
Trump’s early departure means he skipped scheduled meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. His decision echoes a similar move in 2018, when he left the Quebec G7 summit early to meet North Korea’s Kim Jong Un.
Back in Washington, reports suggest Trump has convened a meeting of the National Security Council, fueling rumors of a potential escalation.
Trade Amid Turmoil
Despite geopolitical tensions, Trump finalized a UK-US trade deal at the summit, easing import tariffs on goods like automobiles. He hinted at a similar pact with Canada in the coming month.
“The UK is very well protected from future import taxes,” Trump stated. “You know why? Because I like them.”
Summary Highlights:
- G7 issues joint call for Middle East de-escalation but avoids naming an Israel-Iran ceasefire.
- Trump exits G7 early, citing vague “big stuff” while warning Iranians to flee Tehran.
- Israeli airstrikes and Iranian missile attacks continue, with heavy casualties on both sides.
- Trump signs UK trade deal, skips key bilateral talks, and faces criticism from Macron.
- Speculation grows over US military involvement and the true nature of Trump’s early return.
