Trump Cuts G7 Short as Iran-Israel Tensions Explode
In a dramatic turn of events at the G7 summit in Canada, President Donald Trump departed ahead of schedule Monday night to address the rapidly escalating Iran-Israel conflict. The move came after mounting pressure from allies and unfolding developments in the Middle East, where strikes and counterstrikes have pushed the region to the brink of a broader war.
Though Trump initially resisted calls to support a joint diplomatic statement with fellow G7 leaders, he later reversed course and signed on—just hours before leaving the summit.
Pressure Builds at the G7 Summit
Tensions simmered throughout the first day of the summit, with leaders urging de-escalation. Trump, however, remained noncommittal. Speaking to reporters earlier on Monday, he said, “As soon as I leave here, we’re going to be doing something. But I have to leave here.”
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt later confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that Trump would depart after the summit dinner, citing the Middle East situation as the reason. His early exit meant skipping a scheduled session on Ukraine and a planned meeting with President Zelensky.
Trump’s Mixed Signals and Final Statement
Initially, Trump declined to sign the G7’s draft statement condemning the violence and urging diplomacy. However, later that evening, he endorsed a revised version. The signed statement emphasized that Iran “can never have a nuclear weapon” and urged both parties to seek a ceasefire in Gaza and a broader de-escalation.
A senior U.S. official, speaking anonymously, revealed that Trump changed his mind after language revisions made the statement more agreeable. “He appreciated the support from leaders and returns focused on restoring peace,” the official noted.
Military Posture Remains Defensive—for Now
While Israel pushed for U.S. military backing, Trump stopped short of committing American forces. When asked directly whether the U.S. would engage militarily, Trump refused to comment. Leavitt later stated that American forces would continue maintaining a defensive posture for the time being.
Despite intense lobbying from Israeli officials, Trump maintained that the U.S. would help defend Israel but would not join in offensive operations unless absolutely necessary.
Tehran Warning Raises Eyebrows
In a stark warning posted on Truth Social, Trump urged all residents of Tehran to evacuate immediately. “IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON,” he emphasized, adding, “Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!”
The statement left many unsure whether he had intelligence suggesting an imminent Israeli strike or whether it was a general show of force.
Israel-Iran Conflict Intensifies
The violence began Friday with Israeli strikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities. Iran retaliated with waves of ballistic missiles and drones, several of which hit Israeli targets. The back-and-forth shows no sign of slowing, despite repeated claims by Iran that its nuclear program is for civilian use only.
On Monday, Israeli airstrikes hit Iran’s state television headquarters during a live broadcast, igniting further outrage and increasing global concern.
Missed Diplomatic Opportunity?
Trump criticized Iran for walking away from a deal that might have prevented Israeli attacks. According to the President, both sides had a 60-day window to reach an agreement. “They should talk immediately, before it’s too late,” he told reporters.
Talks to reduce Iran’s nuclear ambitions were scheduled to continue over the weekend but were cancelled following the attacks. Still, Trump suggested there’s hope: “Iran is at the negotiating table. They want to make a deal.”
Allies Call for Calm—but Prepare for the Worst
The joint G7 statement, now backed by all members, including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the U.K., the U.S., and the EU, supports Israel’s right to self-defense. Yet it also calls for diplomacy and urges both nations to pursue peaceful resolution.
Germany’s government spokesman Stefan Kornelius remarked that the joint message aimed to “impact the Middle East crisis meaningfully.”
India’s PM Touches Down in Alberta Amid Crisis
Amid the summit’s diplomatic drama, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Alberta, Canada, signaling India’s intent to remain engaged despite the chaos. His arrival adds another layer of geopolitical significance as the world watches the Middle East situation unfold.
Stay tuned to Maple Wire for real-time updates on the G7, Middle East conflict, and global diplomacy.
