Kananaskis: The Group of Seven (G7) nations voiced strong support for Israel late Monday while holding Iran responsible for growing instability across the Middle East. In a joint statement, G7 leaders called for a broad reduction in regional tensions and emphasized the need to avoid further escalation.
The remarks come as Israel and Iran exchange military strikes in what has become an intensifying air conflict. Hostilities flared on Friday when Israel launched airstrikes on Iranian territory, which it described as a preemptive move to stop Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. The confrontation adds fuel to a region already roiled by Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza since October 2023.
“We stand by Israel’s right to self-defense and reaffirm our commitment to its security,” the G7 leaders said. They further condemned Iran, labeling it "the main source of regional instability and terrorism,” and stressed that Tehran must never be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon.
While Israel claims its military actions aim to prevent Iran from advancing a nuclear weapons program, Tehran insists its nuclear activities are peaceful and in accordance with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Unlike Iran, Israel is not a signatory to the NPT and maintains a policy of ambiguity around its own nuclear arsenal, which is widely believed to exist.
The recent airstrikes have led to significant casualties, with Iranian authorities reporting over 220 deaths—most of them civilians—while Israel has confirmed 24 civilian fatalities.
The United States, though not directly participating in the Israeli attacks, has acknowledged prior knowledge. President Donald Trump praised the Israeli operation as "excellent" and warned Iran against targeting American personnel or assets in the region. Trump also left the G7 summit early in light of the unfolding crisis.
As tensions rise, Washington continues to pursue diplomatic avenues, expressing a willingness to revive nuclear talks with Tehran. Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with officials from the UK, France, and the EU on Monday to discuss coordinated responses to the conflict.
The G7 statement concluded with a call for a broader Middle East de-escalation, including a ceasefire in Gaza, and signaled readiness to stabilize global energy markets if needed.
