European leaders attending the G7 summit are challenging the US President’s seemingly overly optimistic view on the Israel-Iran conflict. With military exchanges intensifying and casualties mounting, their objective is to gain a definitive understanding of his strategy and whether he intends to push for a ceasefire, moving beyond his unsubstantiated remarks about “peace soon.”
The Israel-Iran hostilities have unexpectedly taken center stage at the G7, displacing other previously planned discussions. This highlights the global community’s deep concern over the conflict’s potential to significantly disrupt the world economy. While a collective statement calling for de-escalation is likely, differing views among G7 members on supporting Israel’s actions may impede a fully unified message.
The immediate impact of the conflict is evident in the cancellation of US-Iran talks on Tehran’s civil nuclear program. A crucial sticking point for any future diplomatic engagement remains the US’s insistence that Iran forgo domestic uranium enrichment.
The summit host has reportedly abandoned the idea of a joint communique to prevent public discord, choosing to focus on issues like critical mineral supply lines and artificial intelligence. However, European leaders are committed to finding a common line on Iran that transcends general calls for restraint, seeking a clear de-escalation plan from the US.