The leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) countries have agreed on a joint statement in support of Israel’s self-defence and against Iran.
The G7 statement noted that Israel “has the right to self-defence” and called Iran “a major source of regional instability and terror”.
“We have consistently stated that Iran must never have nuclear weapons. We call for a resolution to the Iranian crisis to lead to a broader de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza,” said the US, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and Canada.
The G7 leaders also pledge to “closely monitor” the implications for international energy markets and stand ready to coordinate their actions, including with like-minded partners, to ensure market stability.
The G7 leaders’ summit is taking place in Kananaskis, Canada, from 15-17 June.
The statement comes against the backdrop of airstrikes on Iranian territory that Israel launched on 13 June, attacking nuclear, military and energy facilities. Iran retaliated with missile and drone strikes against Israel.
Israel said it carried out these attacks to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. In the first surprise strike on 13 June, top commanders and scientists were killed. Since then, Iran’s Health Ministry has said 224 people have died. Ministry spokesman Hossein Kermanpour said more than 90 per cent of the victims were civilians.
According to the Israeli side, 23 people were killed in Iranian attacks.