G7 Leaders Meet in Canada Amid Israel-Iran Tensions, US Trade Disputes

The 2025 Group of Seven (G7) summit convened in Kananaskis, Alberta, amid escalating global tensions, particularly the conflict between Israel and Iran and ongoing trade disputes involving U.S. President Donald Trump. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, hosting the summit, opted not to issue a traditional joint communique, reflecting divisions among the members and focusing instead on chair summaries to maintain engagement with the U.S. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized efforts to de-escalate the Israel-Iran conflict, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attended to discuss related security concerns. Trump's recent veto of an Israeli plan to assassinate Iran's Supreme Leader and his contentious trade policies, including threats of tariffs and controversial remarks about Canada and Greenland, added unpredictability to the gathering. Bilateral meetings were expected, focusing on trade agreements and diplomatic relations, with the summit aiming to address global economic challenges, peace, and security despite the potential for disruptions. Protests were anticipated near the summit venues, underscoring the contentious atmosphere surrounding the event.