Trump leaves G7 summit early amid rising tensions in Middle East
(CNN)-President Donald Trump abruptly departed the G7 summit in Canada, citing urgent national security matters related to Iran and its escalating conflict with Israel. “I have to be back, very important,” Trump said as he left the summit.
According to the White House, the president is meeting with national security staff in the Situation Room to address developments in the Middle East, a region that hosts critical oil routes and multiple U.S. military bases.
Trump’s return followed his dramatic call for the evacuation of Tehran amid reports of Israeli strikes in the area. U.S. Defense Secretary confirmed additional military resources have been deployed to the region in response to the growing tensions.
“I want to see no nuclear weapon in Iran, and we’re well on our way to making sure that happens,” Trump stated. Since the U.S. withdrew from the 2015 nuclear agreement in 2018, Iran’s uranium enrichment is now reportedly 50 times higher than before.
Former Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz warned, “Iran already has missiles that can reach Eastern Europe. Wait a few more years and they can reach the heart of Europe.”
Trump says he’s pushing for a ceasefire agreement that includes a renewed nuclear deal. Two sources close to the administration say he’s instructed his team to begin discussions with Iranian officials as soon as possible.
The White House maintains that the U.S. will defend its interests in the region if needed. While some analysts believe Israel lacks the weapons to destroy Iran’s heavily fortified Fordow nuclear site, others suggest the U.S. may have the capability.
“Maybe Trump is orchestrating this to make the Iranians an offer he hopes they won’t refuse. I suspect they will refuse it,” said former State Department Middle East negotiator Aaron David Miller.
