G7 leaders have jointly called for a de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, urging an immediate ceasefire in Gaza amid intensifying conflict between Israel and Iran.

In a statement issued on Monday, the leaders expressed their commitment to peace and regional stability, while reaffirming that "Israel has a right to defend itself." The summit, held in Kananaskis, Canada, was disrupted by rising tensions in the Middle East, prompting US President Donald Trump to leave early.

Trump told reporters he had to return to Washington because of “what's going on in the Middle East” and later wrote on social media: “Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again!” He also warned Iranians to “immediately evacuate” Tehran, hours before reports of explosions and air defence fire were reported in the city. Israel also launched attacks on Iran’s state broadcaster, forcing a live presenter off-air.

The situation has escalated with missile strikes reported in Tel Aviv and Tehran, and Israel claiming to have killed dozens of top Iranian military officials.

Despite this, analysts say Israel has not succeeded in destroying Iran's nuclear programme, which remains heavily protected in fortified underground sites like Fordow.

While Trump announced new US military deployments to bolster defence in the region, American officials rejected claims that the US would directly join Israel’s offensive.

Trump’s early exit from the G7 meant he missed meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.

World leaders at the summit voiced understanding over Trump's departure. “If the United States can achieve a ceasefire, that's a very good thing,” said French President Emmanuel Macron.

The G7 statement reinforced their view that Iran is the "principal source of regional instability and terror" and declared that “Iran can never have a nuclear weapon.”

Despite rising tensions, there were breakthroughs at the summit.

Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer agreed on a trade deal, and Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney said a separate deal to resolve import tax disputes with the US could be finalised within a month.