Trump leaves G7 early amid Israel-Iran conflict.
Speaking to reporters before his early departure from the G7 summit, U.S.
Trump’s remarks come amid mounting international concern as missile strikes and retaliatory attacks continue between the two longtime adversaries, with rising civilian casualties and deepening instability in the Middle East.
While some leaders at the G7 summit in Italy pressed for a unified condemnation of Iran’s recent missile barrages, Trump maintained that both sides bore responsibility and emphasized the urgent need for diplomacy over military escalation.
“There’s already too much pain, too much destruction. I believe negotiations — real, serious talks — are the only path forward.”
Trump also suggested that he would be willing to help mediate if asked. “If I can assist in bringing them to the table, I will,” he added.
His departure overshadowed some planned meetings and drew mixed reactions from fellow G7 leaders.
Kananaskis, Canada — The Group of Seven (G7) summit in the serene setting of the Canadian Rockies was thrown into chaos on Monday when U.S. President Donald Trump made a dramatic early exit amid escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. His departure came as the international community struggled to address the growing hostilities in the Middle East, and Trump issued a stark warning: Tehran must be evacuated “immediately.”
Originally convened to address pressing global challenges—from the Ukraine war to trade tensions—the summit was quickly overshadowed by a resurgent crisis in the Middle East. Four days prior, Israel had launched a large-scale aerial assault on Iranian nuclear facilities, raising global alarm over the potential for a full-scale regional war. Trump, speaking candidly at the summit, stated, “Israel is not winning this war.
He further accused Iran of missing opportunities for diplomacy. They didn’t,” he said, adding, “They have to make a deal.” Trump’s comments reflected a growing impatience with Tehran’s nuclear ambitions, and a belief that diplomacy is still possible—but only for a short time.
The remark shocked diplomats and media alike, triggering fresh concerns about possible military escalation.
A key focus of the summit had been Iran’s nuclear program, particularly its Fordo uranium enrichment facility, buried deep underground and protected against conventional attacks. Reports suggest Israel has been unable to strike Fordo effectively, lacking access to the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator—America’s 30,000-pound bunker-busting bomb. Only the U.S. B-2 stealth bomber can deliver such a weapon, further complicating Israel’s military calculus.
Shortly before departing, Trump posed for a group photo with other leaders and simply said, “I have to be back, very important.” The message left an impression of urgency and growing friction between unilateral American action and broader international cooperation.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who hosted the summit, tried to downplay the drama. “I am very grateful for the president’s presence and I fully understand,” he said diplomatically.
Yet the atmosphere at the summit remained tense. The world appears to teeter on the brink of multiple geopolitical fires: Ukraine remains mired in war, Gaza remains volatile, and trade tensions have reignited fears of a global economic downturn.
Trump’s abrupt exit illustrated his preference for direct, decisive action over consensus building. Despite the presence of G7 leaders from France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, and Canada, Trump appeared to favor a go-it-alone approach. He openly criticized the group’s past decisions, particularly the expulsion of Russia in 2014, arguing it had destabilized global affairs.
Middle East tensions. Merz later emphasized that Germany would draft a joint communique asserting Iran must never obtain nuclear weapons.
Despite this united front, Trump’s rhetoric stood apart, often overshadowing collective statements with bold personal declarations.
As Trump left Kananaskis, he seemed aware of criticism from isolationist factions within his base. Yet he held firm. “AMERICA FIRST means many GREAT things, including the fact that, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!!” he posted.
His presence sparked sharp discussions behind the scenes. Leaders like Carney and Starmer were heard noting that Trump’s remarks had become the summit’s focal point. Trump also had private talks with Macron, Merz, Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba, and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, covering topics from Middle East tensions to tariffs.
Trump’s Tuesday schedule had included meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. Zelenskyy had planned to discuss a proposed defense purchase from the U.S., but with Trump’s early departure, the status of that package is now uncertain.
Trade disputes added further tension. Trump has re-imposed significant tariffs: 50% on steel and aluminum, 25% on autos, and a 10% blanket tax on most imports. Talks with Canada and the UK led to a trade framework that includes some protections, but many tariffs remain. Mexico and Canada face further duties under Trump’s anti-fentanyl initiative.
Despite criticism, Trump left the summit confident in his approach, hinting that progress might not come from consensus but from pressure and bold unilateral moves.
Key Takeaways from Trump’s G7 Exit:
Trump left the G7 summit early due to the Israel-Iran crisis.
He warned Tehran should be evacuated “immediately.”
Trump claimed Israel is not winning and called for urgent talks.
He criticized Iran for missing chances to negotiate.
Israel lacks the U.S. bunker-buster needed to strike Fordo.
Trump’s statements dominated the summit’s media coverage.
Planned meetings with Zelenskyy and Sheinbaum are now uncertain.
Trump reaffirmed tariffs and promoted “America First” diplomacy.