Trump to Depart G7 Summit Early Amid Rising Tensions in the Middle East

Trump's Early Exit from the G7 Summit

President Donald Trump is set to leave the G7 Summit ahead of schedule, returning to Washington tonight, as reported by various news outlets. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt shared on social media that the president would cut his visit short in Kananaskis, Canada. She stated, “President Trump had a productive day at the G7, even finalizing a significant trade agreement with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. However, due to escalating events in the Middle East, he will depart tonight after dining with fellow Heads of State,” Leavitt posted on X.

Originally, Trump was slated to leave Canada on Tuesday following a news conference. Just before the announcement of his early departure, he urged on Truth Social for civilians to “immediately evacuate Tehran!” as tensions between Iran and Israel intensified. Amidst the growing conflict, Trump called for immediate evacuation shortly after the White House confirmed his early exit to address pressing matters.

In a series of posts on Truth Social, Trump reiterated his long-standing concerns regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions, warning of dire consequences. He stated, “Iran should have signed the ‘deal’ I urged them to accept. It’s a tragedy and a waste of lives. Simply put, IRAN CANNOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I have said this repeatedly!” He emphasized the urgency of action as tensions escalated, adding, “Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!” In a subsequent post, he linked his firm stance on Iran's nuclear program to his broader political agenda, asserting, “AMERICA FIRST encompasses many great principles, including that IRAN CANNOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!!”

Israel has been conducting airstrikes in Tehran since Thursday night, although the US has not participated in these operations. Following Trump's warning, Iranian media reported explosions and heavy air defense activity in Tehran, though it remains unclear if there is a connection between his statement and the attacks. Tehran, with a population of around 10 million, is experiencing significant unrest. Trump's evacuation alert was issued around 2 am local time. The Israeli military has claimed it maintains complete air superiority over Tehran.

On Monday, Israel indicated it was broadening its targets beyond military or nuclear sites, including strikes on Iranian state television. The Israeli government has issued several evacuation orders for civilians in Tehran, particularly in densely populated areas. However, it remains uncertain how many civilians have been able to evacuate or if a mass exodus is feasible on such short notice.

Just hours before his post on Truth Social, Trump mentioned at the G7 summit that the US was in communication with Iranian officials and suggested that face-to-face discussions would be more effective. He expressed optimism about reaching an agreement, stating, “I believe a deal will be finalized. Iran is making a mistake by not signing one.” Iran has called for US intervention to help halt the escalating aerial assaults, which have intensified in recent days. Earlier, Trump indicated that a diplomatic resolution with Iran could be imminent after his departure from the G7 summit, saying, “I think Iran is essentially at the negotiating table and eager to reach an agreement. We will be taking action as soon as I leave here.”

The summit has already revealed divisions among leaders during Trump's brief attendance. He indicated he would not endorse a joint statement from G7 leaders advocating for de-escalation between Israel and Iran, although officials involved in drafting the document remained hopeful he might reconsider. The G7 summit in the Canadian Rockies has highlighted significant disagreements between President Trump and other leaders regarding a unified stance on the Middle East. Trump has opted not to sign a statement affirming Israel's right to self-defense and opposing Iran's nuclear ambitions.

Trump believes Iran is inclined to de-escalate the situation and is open to negotiations. Earlier this spring, he issued a two-month ultimatum to Iran, and on the 61st day, Israel commenced strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities and military leaders. European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, have been striving to reach a consensus on the Middle East crisis. However, Trump's refusal to sign would hinder a display of unity among G7 leaders.