Trump Calls for Iran-Israel Talks Amidst G7 Discord

Donald Trump expressed his belief that Iran is open to discussing de-escalation of the conflict with Israel and suggested that the parties should engage in immediate talks. He stated that while a deal would be difficult for both sides, Iran was not prevailing in the conflict.

The former president was attending the G7 summit in Canada but announced his early departure to return to Washington D.C., citing the situation in the Middle East. Reports indicate that Tehran has requested assistance from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Oman to persuade Trump to influence Israel to agree to a ceasefire in exchange for flexibility in nuclear negotiations.

Trump's comments came amidst escalating attacks between Israel and Iran. Iranian state media warned of a potential large-scale missile attack on Israeli territory. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared his country was on a path to victory. When asked about potential U.S. military involvement, Trump declined to comment, reaffirming the U.S.'s long-standing support for Israel.

The G7 summit, attended by leaders from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the U.S., along with the European Union, was seen as a crucial opportunity to foster unity among democratic nations. However, a U.S. official revealed that Trump would not sign a draft statement calling for de-escalation. European leaders were still working on the language, hoping to gain Trump's support.

The draft statement reportedly aims to protect market stability, including energy markets, and acknowledges Israel's right to self-defense. It also addresses Iran's nuclear ambitions. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need for de-escalation, highlighting the potential global implications of the conflict.

Before discussing the Middle East conflict, Trump lamented Russia's exclusion from the G7, stating that he believed the presence of Russia would have prevented the current war. He acknowledged that a trade deal with Canada was possible, but tariffs remained a point of contention.