Tensions in the Middle East are poised to dominate the agenda at the G7 summit, as leaders of the world’s largest industrialised nations gather in the Canadian Rockies on Monday. The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, and its broader implications for global security, will be among the foremost concerns.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz underscored the gravity of the situation, warning of the dangers posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions. “Iran must not be allowed to develop or have nuclear weapons,” Merz said firmly, aligning with his known support for Israel.
He added, “Israel has the right to defend its existence and the security of its citizens,” while describing Tehran’s nuclear programme as “an existential threat to Israel.”
US President Donald Trump, speaking on Sunday, struck a markedly different tone, expressing hope for a diplomatic breakthrough. “I hope there’s going to be a deal. I think it's time for a deal, and we’ll see what happens,” he said. “Sometimes they have to fight it out, but we're going to see what happens,” Trump added, when pressed about the possibility of hostilities continuing.
While Trump reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to Israel’s defence, he declined to clarify whether he had urged Tel Aviv to pause its military campaign.
Also read: PM invited to G7 by Canada, looks forward to meeting leaders
The conflict intensified further on Monday after Iran categorically ruled out a ceasefire following a fresh round of Israeli airstrikes on Tehran. These were reportedly the third wave of Israeli attacks in recent days, targeting what Israel described as Iranian nuclear installations.
Tehran has responded by launching retaliatory strikes on Israeli military infrastructure in Tel Aviv, calling the pre-emptive Israeli action a “violation of international law.”
The summit is being attended by leaders of Canada, the United States, France, Italy, Japan, Germany, and Britain, as well as the European Union. Several non-G7 countries have also been invited to the gathering.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to meet US President Donald Trump on the summit’s sidelines, amid continued Western support for Kyiv in its war with Russia.
With the twin crises of the Middle East and Ukraine looming large, the G7 gathering is shaping up to be one of the most geopolitically charged meetings in recent memory.
Follow us
