Leaders of the G7 nations on Monday called for an immediate “de-escalation” in the Middle East, with a specific focus on ending hostilities between Israel and Iran and pushing for a ceasefire in Gaza. The joint statement, released by host nation Canada, stressed the urgent need to protect civilians and prevent a broader regional war.
“We urge that the resolution of the Iranian crisis leads to a broader de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza,” the statement read. While recognizing Israel’s right to self-defense, the G7 emphasized the importance of safeguarding civilian lives amid growing casualties on both sides.
The statement followed Israel’s recent launch of a large-scale air campaign — codenamed Operation Rising Lion — targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, military sites, and private homes. The attacks have killed dozens, including top Iranian scientists and commanders, while also striking civilian areas, prompting outrage in Tehran and beyond.
Read: Israel Accused of Waging ‘Psychological Warfare’ on Iran
The leaders of Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States reiterated their shared stance that “Iran must never acquire a nuclear weapon,” as fears rise over further regional escalation.
Trump Leaves G7 Early, Denies Involvement in Ceasefire Talks
US President Donald Trump abruptly left the G7 summit on Monday, fueling speculation that Washington was preparing to intervene diplomatically or militarily in the ongoing conflict. French President Emmanuel Macron told reporters that Trump had offered a proposal for a ceasefire between Israel and Iran.
“There is indeed an offer to meet and exchange,” Macron said. “An offer was made especially to get a ceasefire and to then kick-start broader discussions.”
However, Trump immediately denied Macron’s claims on his Truth Social account. “Macron mistakenly said that I left the G7 Summit in Canada to go back to D.C. to work on a ‘ceasefire’ between Israel and Iran,” he posted. “Wrong! He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a ceasefire. Much bigger than that.”
A White House official later confirmed that the US president would not sign the G7 draft statement and insisted that American forces remained in a “defensive posture.” Trump has not confirmed whether the US will participate in Israeli military operations.
Civilian Death Toll Rises as Conflict Spreads
The human cost of the Israel-Iran conflict continues to climb. Iranian authorities report more than 224 civilians killed and over 1,000 injured since Friday, with strikes hitting residential areas, nuclear research centers, and military outposts. In the latest attack, three people were killed and four wounded when an Israeli missile struck a checkpoint in Kashan city, Isfahan province.
Iranian media reported explosions and anti-aircraft fire in Tehran early Tuesday. Defensive systems also activated in Natanz, home to key nuclear facilities. Local reports suggest heavy damage, although Iranian officials have not confirmed the full extent.
Israel says at least 24 of its citizens have been killed in Iranian counterstrikes, most of them civilians.
President Macron separately warned against forcing regime change in Tehran. “Aiming to overthrow the Iranian regime would be a strategic mistake,” he said. “All who have thought that by bombing from the outside you can save a country in spite of itself have always been mistaken.”
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