Trump seeks diplomatic breakthrough at G7 as tensions escalate between Israel and Iran
(NBC)- President Donald Trump turned his focus to the global stage today, arriving in Canada for the Group of Seven summit amid growing fears of an escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.
Speaking to reporters, Trump acknowledged the rising hostilities but remained cautiously optimistic. “Sometimes they have to fight it out,” the president said. “But we’re going to see what happens. I think there’s a good chance there’ll be a deal.”
The president reaffirmed U.S. support for Israel’s defense efforts, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu noting that American pilots have already shot down drones headed toward Israeli territory.
Iran, in turn, has threatened to target U.S. military forces if the U.S. continues assisting Israel. Lawmakers across party lines issued stern warnings.
Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) stated, “The United States has troops, facilities, and civilians in the region. Do not attack them. That is our red line. If you go there, all bets are off.”
Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal echoed the need to protect American personnel, while emphasizing the importance of diplomacy: “Bring the two sides together, as well as protecting U.S. personnel.”
U.S. embassy offices in Israel are closed today as a precaution. Meanwhile, a U.S. official confirmed to NBC News that President Trump recently rejected a proposal from Israel to assassinate Iran’s Supreme Leader — a move that could have significantly escalated the conflict. The growing crisis in the Middle East is expected to dominate discussions at the G7 summit.
Back in the U.S., protests erupted over the weekend against the Trump administration’s policies. Demonstrators gathered in multiple cities, their events timed to coincide with a military parade in Washington celebrating the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary and the president’s 79th birthday.
