Middle-East tensions: Trump warns “evacuate Tehran” as Israel strikes Iran; exits G7 summit early

Trump's sudden departure has raised concerns over mounting global instability, particularly as world leaders had convened in Canada to address a series of pressing international crises.

U.S. President Donald Trump cut short his visit to the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, leaving late Monday evening amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following Israel’s recent airstrikes on Iran.

His sudden departure has raised concerns over mounting global instability, particularly as world leaders had convened in Canada to address a series of pressing international crises.

Trump’s early exit came just hours after he issued a dramatic warning on social media, calling for the immediate evacuation of Tehran.

“Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!” he posted, fueling speculation over possible U.S. military involvement. Earlier in the day, he had cautioned Iran to halt its nuclear ambitions before it was “too late.”

The president slammed Tehran for failing to engage in diplomatic talks despite having what he described as a 60-day window to negotiate before Israel launched its offensive. “They have to make a deal,” Trump insisted, while declining to outline what conditions would prompt direct U.S. military action.

The summit, intended to foster unity among the leaders of the G7 nations, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, was overshadowed by the escalating Iran-Israel conflict.

While Trump signaled a willingness to act unilaterally, European leaders moved swiftly to coordinate a diplomatic response. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni held informal late-night discussions Sunday to explore options for de-escalation.

Chancellor Merz later told reporters that Germany would propose a joint statement underscoring that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons-grade material. European leaders emphasized the need to stabilize the region and prevent the conflict from spiraling further across the Middle East.

Despite his departure, the White House maintained that Trump's participation had yielded progress. “Much was accomplished, but because of what’s going on in the Middle East, President Trump will be leaving tonight after dinner with Heads of State,” said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

Trump’s decision to leave also meant missing a slate of Tuesday meetings focused on the ongoing war in Ukraine and global trade disputes. His absence leaves a notable gap in negotiations, especially as he has imposed tariffs on multiple countries, triggering fears of a broader economic downturn.

Meanwhile, the president continued to promote his "America First" doctrine, declaring on his Truth Social platform, “AMERICA FIRST means many GREAT things, including the fact that IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!!”

Trump also reignited old criticisms of the G7, suggesting that the 2014 decision to expel Russia was a mistake and hinting at possible support for China’s inclusion.

In an unexpected moment of diplomacy, he announced a new trade framework with the U.K., formalising a previously discussed agreement with Prime Minister Starmer. “British trade is very well protected,” Trump said. “I like them, that’s why. That’s their ultimate protection.”

The 2025 G7 Summit is being held under Canada's presidency, which commenced on January 1 and marks the 50th anniversary of the global forum. Leaders from the G7 nations, Canada, France, India, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, the U.S., and the European Union are in attendance.

The summit is taking place against the backdrop of rising geopolitical turmoil, with key concerns including the escalating Israel-Iran conflict, the protracted war in Ukraine, and intensifying global trade tensions fueled by Trump’s protectionist stance.

Trump, who arrived in Kananaskis on Sunday, has already stirred global attention by calling for the evacuation of Tehran amid mounting Middle East tensions.

(With inputs from agencies)