#IsraelIranConflict

G7 Calls for Middle East De-escalation as Trump Refuses to Sign Joint Statement

G7 leaders meeting in Kananaskis, Alberta, have issued a draft joint communique urging immediate de-escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran. The statement calls for restraint from both sides, emphasizes the need to prevent further civilian casualties, and reaffirms Israel’s right to self-defense while opposing any Iranian pursuit of nuclear weapons. Leaders from Canada, the UK, France, Germany, and other member nations endorsed the document in hopes of reducing tensions.

However, former U.S. President Donald Trump, attending the summit, refused to sign the statement. According to U.S. officials, Trump argued that he had already addressed the issue publicly and saw “no reason” to join the G7 consensus. He also abruptly cut short his participation in the summit, choosing to return to Washington to directly manage the unfolding Middle East crisis.

Meanwhile, the conflict on the ground continues to escalate. Israeli airstrikes have struck targets in Tehran, including state TV facilities and military sites, while Iran has responded with a barrage of missiles targeting Israeli cities. Current reports indicate that at least 224 civilians have been killed in Iran and 24 in Israel, with growing fears that the death toll could climb as the violence continues.