G7 leaders urge ceasefire and de-escalation amid escalating Middle East conflict

The leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations have jointly called for an immediate de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza, as the conflict between Israel and Iran enters its fifth day.

In a joint statement, the G7 reiterated their commitment to regional peace and stability, while affirming that "Israel has a right to defend itself." The leaders expressed growing concern over the rising civilian toll and the risk of regional spillover.

Trump leaves G7 summit early amid Middle East crisis

U.S. President Donald Trump abruptly left the G7 summit on Monday night, citing the situation in the Middle East. Speaking to reporters, he said, "I have to be back early for obvious reasons." His early departure meant missing scheduled meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Tuesday.

Shortly before leaving, Trump had posted on social media that Iran "should have signed the deal" presented during the most recent round of U.S.–Iran nuclear talks. 

He emphasized again, "Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again!"

He further urged residents of Tehran to “immediately evacuate” the Iranian capital, home to nearly 17 million people. No further details were given, but shortly after his post, explosions and anti-aircraft fire were reported in Tehran, according to Iranian state media.

Fifth Day of Crossfire Between Israel and Iran

As tensions reached new heights, Israeli and Iranian forces exchanged missile strikes for the fifth consecutive day.

In Israel, air raid sirens wailed across Tel Aviv, with reports of explosions following Iranian missile launches.

In Iran, an Israeli missile struck the state broadcaster’s headquarters, forcing live broadcasts to be halted mid-transmission.

Israel has claimed partial control over Iranian airspace and says its campaign has killed several top Iranian military officials and nuclear scientists.

Despite the intensity of the strikes, Iran’s core nuclear infrastructure appears intact, with analysts suggesting that only U.S. military assets—such as long-range bombers and bunker-busting bombs—are capable of destroying deeply buried facilities like the Fordow enrichment site.

Mixed Messages from Washington

While Trump’s departure heightened speculation about deeper U.S. involvement, the Pentagon clarified that the U.S. is not joining the Israeli offensive.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced "additional capabilities" were being deployed to the region to strengthen defensive posture.

Reports also indicate that Trump instructed the National Security Council to convene upon his return to Washington.

Global Reactions

Other G7 leaders expressed understanding over Trump’s early departure.

French President Emmanuel Macron said, “If the United States can help secure a ceasefire, that would be welcome.”

Australian PM Anthony Albanese, who was scheduled to meet Trump regarding tariffs, called the move "understandable."

Though Trump was reportedly hesitant to endorse a joint G7 statement on the Israel-Iran conflict, all member states ultimately signed a resolution reiterating support for Israel’s security and asserting, “Iran is the principal source of regional instability and terror. We have been consistently clear that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon.”

Trade Talks Still in Motion

Despite the crisis, some progress was made on trade.

Trump and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer signed a bilateral tariff deal.

Trump assured the UK was "very well protected" from future import taxes.

A US–Canada trade agreement is also reportedly in the works, with a resolution expected within 30 days, according to Canadian PM Mark Carney.

Casualties Mount

According to official sources, 224 people have been killed in Iran, per the Iranian Health Ministry and at least 24 deaths have been reported in Israel.

The international community remains on high alert as hopes rest on diplomatic efforts to contain the conflict before it spirals further.