Trump signals escalation in Israel-Iran conflict as he leaves G7 summit early
KANANASKIS, ALBERTA – JUNE 16: (L-R) Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, French President Emmanuel Macron, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, U.S. President Donald Trump, British Prime Minister Kier Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, European Union Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Union Council President Antonio Costa and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba participate in a meeting at the G7 Leaders’ Summit on June 16, 2025 in Kananaskis, Alberta.
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U.S. President Donald Trump recently made headlines with his early departure from the Group of Seven summit, citing “much bigger” issues than a ceasefire between Tel Aviv and Tehran as the reason for his sudden exit. This decision followed his call for the evacuation of Tehran amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The G7 leaders issued a joint statement expressing support for Israel’s right to defend itself and condemning Iran as the primary source of regional instability. They reiterated their stance against Iran obtaining nuclear weapons.
Trump’s departure and subsequent social media posts were in response to French President Emmanuel Macron’s remarks about a ceasefire offer between Israel and Iran. Trump clarified that his return to Washington was unrelated to ceasefire negotiations.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Trump’s early departure was prompted by ongoing events in the Middle East. Trump’s call for Iranian civilians to evacuate Tehran further escalated tensions.
The G7 leaders called for a resolution to the Iranian crisis and broader de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza. Meanwhile, Israel reported the elimination of a top Iranian military commander.
The G7 summit, which includes the U.S., U.K., Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan, focused on global economic and geopolitical challenges. The leaders also discussed Trump’s tariff policies and trade deals with various countries.
Trump’s reluctance to impose tougher sanctions on Russia and his remarks about Russia’s expulsion from the former G8 group in 2014 stirred controversy among allied leaders. Despite differing views on Russia’s role in global affairs, the G7 leaders emphasized the need for unity in addressing international conflicts.
