U.S. President Donald Trump abruptly left the Group of Seven (G7) summit on Tuesday, citing a “much bigger” issue than the ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Iran, following growing tensions in the Middle East. His departure came hours after he called on Iranian civilians via social media to “immediately evacuate Tehran,” escalating fears of a broader regional conflict.
The G7 leaders, meeting in Italy, issued a joint statement reaffirming their support for Israel, asserting its right to defend itself, and condemning Iran as the “principal source of regional instability and terror.” They also emphasized that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons.
The statement followed a tense exchange after French President Emmanuel Macron claimed that Trump had floated a ceasefire proposal between Israel and Iran. Trump denied this in a post on Truth Social, stating, “He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a Cease Fire. Much bigger than that.”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed Monday that Trump’s early return was due to developments in the Middle East. Shortly afterward, Trump made his controversial remarks urging Tehran’s evacuation and criticizing Iran for not accepting a deal he claimed to have proposed.
The situation grew more volatile as Israel announced the killing of Ali Shadmani, whom it identified as Iran’s wartime chief of staff and top military commander.
While the G7 reiterated calls for de-escalation, including a ceasefire in Gaza, their united stance contrasted sharply with China’s response. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemned Israel’s strike and expressed Beijing’s willingness to mediate, calling for a peaceful resolution.
In addition to the Middle East, this year’s G7 summit addressed several pressing issues, including global trade tensions. Trump’s protectionist tariff policies, which have targeted all other G7 nations, loomed large over discussions.
Amid these disputes, Trump and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer signed a final trade deal, marking a diplomatic win for both leaders. Meanwhile, Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba acknowledged that trade negotiations with the U.S. remained unresolved.
Trump also reignited debate over Russia’s status, arguing that expelling Russia from the then-G8 in 2014 was a mistake. Speaking with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, he claimed Russia might have avoided invading Ukraine in 2022 had it remained in the group.
