G7 Calls for Iran-Israel De-escalation as Trump Abruptly Leaves Summit

Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) on Monday issued a joint call for de-escalation in the Middle East amid rising tensions between Iran and Israel, as U.S. President Donald Trump abruptly left the summit in the Canadian Rockies ahead of schedule, according to AFP.

The summit, held in the mountain resort of Kananaskis, Canada, focused heavily on the escalating conflict in the region. While the G7 leaders backed Israel's right to self-defense, they also underscored the urgent need to protect civilians and called for a broader reduction in hostilities, including a ceasefire in Gaza.

“We urge that the resolution of the Iranian crisis leads to a broader de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza,” read the joint statement released by Canada on behalf of the G7 nations — Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States.

The statement also reiterated that Iran "can never have a nuclear weapon" and emphasized support for diplomacy. However, the tone of the summit shifted dramatically following Trump’s early departure and his stark warning to Iranian citizens.

“Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform, raising international concerns and prompting criticism from diplomatic circles.

Though initially reluctant to endorse the joint G7 statement, Trump eventually agreed during a dinner with fellow leaders at a forested lodge in the snow-capped Canadian Rockies, AFP reported. Despite his backing of the statement, the president’s rhetoric and departure signaled a hardened U.S. stance.

Trump told reporters earlier, “As soon as I leave here, we're going to be doing something,” without providing further details. During a photo session with fellow G7 leaders before the dinner, he added, “I have to be back as soon as I can. I wish I could stay for tomorrow, but they understand — this is big stuff.”

The president has emphasized diplomacy in public comments for weeks. His special envoy, Steve Witkoff, held five rounds of talks with Iranian representatives. However, Trump threw his support behind Israel’s military response, blaming Tehran for refusing to accept the terms proposed by Washington.

In a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Trump said Iran would be “foolish” not to seek a negotiated solution. “It’s painful for both parties, but I’d say Iran is not winning this war, and they should talk — immediately — before it’s too late,” he said.

French President Emmanuel Macron suggested that diplomatic options remain open, revealing that “an offer was made for a meeting and an exchange.” However, Macron also voiced concern over what appears to be Israel’s broader objective of destabilizing or toppling Iran’s clerical regime. “All who have thought that by bombing from the outside you can save a country in spite of itself have always been mistaken,” he said.

Since Friday, Israel has conducted strikes on major Iranian nuclear and military facilities, reportedly killing senior commanders and nuclear scientists. Iran responded with drone and missile attacks on Israeli targets, pushing the conflict closer to a regional war.

Trump’s early exit means he will miss a key day of G7 meetings that were set to include discussions with the leaders of Ukraine and Mexico.

(Source:Kurdistan24)