G7 Leaders Call for Middle East De-escalation Amid Rising Tensions Between Israel and Iran
June 17, 2025 — Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations have issued a joint statement urging a reduction in hostilities in the Middle East, highlighting the need for calm between Israel and Iran and calling for a ceasefire in Gaza.
The statement, released by Canada on behalf of the G7 countries — which include the US, UK, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and Canada — emphasized the importance of protecting civilians and avoiding further conflict. The leaders reiterated that Iran should not develop nuclear weapons and acknowledged Israel’s right to self-defense.
Tensions increased last week following reports of airstrikes in Iran that targeted military and infrastructure sites. Israeli officials described the operations as part of a broader initiative named “Rising Lion”, which they claim aims to counter Iran’s nuclear programme. Tehran maintains that its nuclear activities are strictly for civilian use.
US President Donald Trump departed the G7 summit early, citing pressing matters related to the situation. While French President Emmanuel Macron suggested that the US had proposed a ceasefire initiative, Trump refuted this, stating that his return to Washington was unrelated to the ceasefire discussions.
On his social media platform, Trump said: “Wrong! He [Macron] has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a ceasefire. Much bigger than that.”
Despite the growing unrest, Trump expressed continued interest in diplomacy, stating his administration remained committed to pursuing a peaceful resolution and a potential agreement on Iran’s nuclear program. US officials confirmed that American forces in the region remain in a defensive position.
Meanwhile, explosions and air defense activity were reported in Tehran and other locations in Iran. Iranian officials called for international mediation, reportedly reaching out to regional countries to facilitate a possible resolution and return to negotiations.
In Israel, warning sirens were heard in parts of the country following reports of incoming projectiles. The Israeli military later lifted the alert, stating that the immediate threat had subsided.
Israeli leaders reaffirmed their position on preventing the development of nuclear weapons in the region and indicated openness to diplomatic solutions, while also emphasizing security concerns.
In a separate development, foreign ministers from 20 Muslim-majority nations issued a joint statement condemning the recent escalation and urging a return to diplomacy. The group called for a Middle East free of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction, underscoring the importance of adhering to international treaties, including the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).
Iran is a signatory to the NPT, while Israel is not, and is widely believed to possess a nuclear arsenal, according to multiple international reports.
As part of the ongoing situation, several countries, including China and India, issued advisories for their citizens to leave affected areas. The Chinese embassy in Israel advised nationals to exit via land routes, while India reported relocating students and other citizens from Tehran to safer areas.
The international community has voiced concern over recent developments, including reports of damage to media infrastructure and industrial facilities. Global media organizations have urged all parties to respect press freedom and ensure the safety of journalists and civilians.
IAEA officials confirmed some damage to nuclear sites in Iran but assured that international safeguards remain in place. Talks between the US and Iran, previously scheduled to take place in Oman, have been postponed in light of the recent events.
As diplomatic efforts continue behind the scenes, leaders around the world are calling for restraint, dialogue, and a commitment to peace in the region.
