Leaders of the G7 nations convened in Canada on Monday and released a joint statement urging for regional “de-escalation”, emphasizing Israel’s right to defend itself amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
In their statement, they affirmed, “We recognize Israel’s right to self-defense. We have clearly stated that Iran must never possess nuclear weapons.” They also stressed that addressing the Iranian crisis should lead to a reduction in tensions in the Middle East, which includes a cease-fire in Gaza.
Additionally, U.S. President Donald Trump decided to leave the G7 summit early on Monday night, a day ahead of schedule, due to the ongoing war between Israel and Iran, as announced by the White House.
White House spokesperson Caroline Levitt shared on X, “Due to the developments in the Middle East, President Trump will depart tonight after dinner with the other leaders.”
In a brief statement, she noted that the President, who was supposed to remain until Tuesday in the Canadian Rockies, “will return to Washington to address several important issues.”
Shortly after, all leaders took a group photo together. President Trump remarked, “I wish I could stay with everyone, but they understand.”
His comments came after he posted on his platform, “Truth Social”, stating, “Everyone should evacuate Tehran immediately.”
The 79-year-old Republican billionaire previously indicated that there would be a “deal” regarding the conflict between Iran and Israel, without clarifying whether it would stem from military action or negotiations.