Kananaskis (Alberta) [Canada], June 17 (HBTV): Ahead of the critical G7 Summit in Canada, leaders of the group issued a statement on the escalating conflict in West Asia, affirming Israel’s right to self-defence while holding Iran responsible for regional instability.
‘We, the leaders of the G7, reiterate our commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. In this context, we affirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. We reiterate our support for the security of Israel. We also affirm the importance of the protection of civilians,’ the statement read.
The G7 leaders further identified Iran as the key driver of unrest and terrorism in the region.
‘Iran is the principal source of regional instability and terror. We have been consistently clear that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon. We urge that the resolution of the Iranian crisis leads to a broader de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza. We will remain vigilant to the implications for international energy markets and stand ready to coordinate, including with like-minded partners, to safeguard market stability,’ the statement added.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump left the G7 summit early, with indications that he is attempting to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. French President Emmanuel Macron, addressing reporters at the summit, said that Trump had extended an offer to facilitate a ceasefire.
‘There is an offer that has been made, especially to have a ceasefire and to initiate broader discussions,’ Macron said. ‘If the United States of America can achieve a ceasefire, it is a very good thing and France will support it, and we wish for it,’ he added.
Earlier, President Trump posted on Truth Social, urging an evacuation of Tehran and reaffirming that Iran must not possess nuclear weapons.
‘Iran should have signed the “deal” I told them to sign. What a shame, and a waste of human life. Simply stated, Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. I have said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!’ he posted.
In another post, he wrote, ‘America First means many great things, including the fact that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. Make America great again.’
The Israel-Iran conflict entered its fifth day on Monday, with both countries engaged in missile exchanges. According to CNN, at least 224 people have been killed in Iran since the beginning of hostilities, while 24 deaths have been reported in Israel. Civilians in several regions continue to face waves of attacks amid escalating tensions.
(ANI)