Leaders of the G7 nations, meeting at their summit in the Canadian Rockies, have issued a joint statement urging a “de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza.” However, the carefully worded appeal stopped short of demanding a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, revealing divisions within the bloc.
The joint communiqué, released as US President Donald Trump departed the summit early, stated: “Israel has a right to defend itself,” while labeling Iran as “a source of terror that should not possess nuclear weapons.” The language, widely seen as a diplomatic compromise to maintain G7 unity, fell short of taking a firm stance on the growing conflict between Israel and Iran.
President Trump’s abrupt departure from the summit triggered speculation. His press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, cited “events in the Middle East” as the reason, while Trump himself told reporters he was returning to Washington for “big stuff.” Asked if his departure was related to efforts toward a ceasefire, Trump replied, “No. Much bigger than that.”
Earlier, Trump had urged Iranian citizens to “immediately evacuate Tehran,” raising fears of potential US military involvement alongside Israel—rumors swiftly denied by American officials. Nevertheless, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the “deployment of additional capabilities” to enhance the Pentagon’s “defensive posture” in the region.
The summit was overshadowed by the escalating Middle East conflict, with several leaders acknowledging Trump’s early exit. French President Emmanuel Macron commented, “If the United States can achieve a ceasefire, that’s a very good thing.” However, Trump later criticized Macron on Truth Social, saying the French leader was “wrong” and “publicity seeking,” adding: “It certainly has nothing to do with a ceasefire… Much bigger than that.”
Trump’s departure also means he will miss planned face-to-face meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, originally scheduled for the summit’s final day.
Despite the dramatic exit, Trump’s press secretary insisted the summit had been productive, highlighting progress on a US-UK trade deal and emphasizing that the President had “a great day.”