G7 Leaders Affirm Support for Israel and Address Iran’s Nuclear Threat
On Tuesday, leaders from the G7 nations came together and released a joint statement during their summit in Alberta, Canada. They expressed backing for Israel’s right to self-defense while asserting that “Iran cannot have nuclear weapons.”
The statement, available online from the office of Prime Minister Mark Carney, underscores their commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. They reaffirmed Israel’s right to defend itself and highlighted the necessity of safeguarding civilians amidst ongoing tensions.
They also characterized Iran as a significant source of instability and concern in the region, reiterating that Iran should not possess nuclear capabilities. The leaders expressed a desire for a resolution to the Iranian crisis, hoping it would ease hostilities across the Middle East, including a cessation of conflict in Gaza.
Additionally, they acknowledged ongoing vigilance regarding potential impacts on global energy markets and indicated readiness to collaborate with like-minded partners to ensure market stability.
The G7 nations include Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, and the US.
Reports indicate that President Donald Trump left the summit early on Monday night to return to the White House, amid discussions about the Iran-Israel conflict. He and his team, however, have been somewhat vague about the specifics of his departure.
On Monday, Trump declined to endorse an early version of the joint statement unless certain language was amended to his satisfaction. According to an unnamed administration official, the draft had to address the protection of civilians and surveillance of Iran’s nuclear sites, which Trump found unsatisfactory.
Following Trump’s exit, the remaining leaders appeared discontented, especially with media characterizations labeling the gathering as a “group of six.” On the summit’s final day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and NATO Secretary-General attended, marking a notable presence.
While Trump returned home, his trade team remained in Alberta. Treasury Secretary Scott Bescent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stayed on, though Trump was meant to meet with Zelensky and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, those discussions fell through due to his early exit.
“We accomplished all we needed to with the G7. It was a successful meeting,” Trump commented to reporters on his way back.
