G7 Leaders Gather in Canada Amid Escalating Global Tensions

Leaders of the world’s major economic powers arrived in Canada on Sunday for the G7 Summit, as the meeting opened under the shadow of mounting global tensions. 

The conflict between Israel and Iran and U.S. President Donald Trump’s ongoing trade disputes have added urgency to the discussions.

Image Source: G7 Official Communique

Israel’s recent strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliation have heightened concerns among world leaders. According to a U.S. official cited by The Associated Press, Trump recently vetoed an Israeli proposal to target Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he had consulted with Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and other leaders to discuss efforts to ease tensions. He expects the crisis will feature prominently in the summit’s discussions.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, hosting the summit, has opted against issuing a joint communique, breaking with tradition amid divisions over Trump’s trade policies. The summit is expected to see a series of bilateral meetings as leaders seek dialogue with Trump, who remains a key but unpredictable figure.

French President Emmanuel Macron, en route to Canada, made a stop in Greenland where he met with local and Danish officials. Macron reiterated his criticism of Trump’s interest in acquiring the Arctic territory, saying such actions are not appropriate between allies.