Escalating violence in the Middle East overshadowed discussions on trade deals during the G7 summit on Monday. U.S. President Donald Trump announced his early departure from the summit, citing the ongoing crisis between Israel and Iran. This decision was confirmed by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt via social media, following a group photo session with other G7 leaders.

“I have to be back; it’s very important,” Trump stated to reporters, expressing gratitude towards the summit's hosts, Canada, while acknowledging the intensity of the situation. The background to his departure involved Israel launching retaliatory strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and other critical infrastructure, a response to escalated tensions manifested through mutual attacks.

Trump’s departure this time was markedly different from his abrupt exit at the previous G7 summit in Canada seven years ago, where he left in a huff. Instead, he emphasized a positive relationship with other leaders at the summit, remarking, “We had just a really great relationship with everybody.”

Despite Trump’s early exit, G7 leaders continued discussions over dinner, with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressing his understanding of the U.S. President's need to depart due to pressing global issues. Carney mentioned that they had productive discussions earlier in the day about international trade and security partnerships between Canada and the United States.

During their initial meeting on Monday, Carney and Trump reportedly agreed to finalize a trade deal within the next month. “Prime Minister Carney and President Trump discussed immediate trade pressures and priorities for each country’s workers and businesses,” stated Canada's formal summary following their private conversation.

Trump was optimistic about reaching an agreement, saying, “I’m sure we can work something out.” He highlighted his preference for tariffs as a straightforward economic tool, contrasting his approach with Carney’s more complex strategy. The discussions at the G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, were vital for framing future trade relations, particularly in light of ongoing tensions relating to Trump’s tariffs.

Also of note was the summit’s commemoration of its 50th anniversary, with Carney acknowledging the importance of U.S. leadership for the G7's effectiveness. He emphasized the need for open discussions among member countries, stating, “Nostalgia isn’t a strategy.”

Amidst the tensions in the Middle East, talks were underway about a potential joint statement addressing the issue, although reports indicated that Trump was hesitant about endorsing such a declaration. German government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius indicated that the American side would ultimately decide on any collective statement concerning the region.

In his social media communications, Trump urged for the evacuation of Tehran and called for Iran to rein in its nuclear ambitions, stressing the urgency of reaching an agreement within a limited timeframe.

In addition to his discussions with Trump, Carney also met individually with other G7 leaders, including Emmanuel Macron from France and Giorgia Meloni from Italy. Following extensive negotiations primarily focused on economic relations, Canadian representatives indicated that progress was being made, although concrete details remained confidential.

Trump’s previous relationship with former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was tumultuous, characterized by a series of disputes. In contrast, Trump expressed satisfaction with his current rapport with Carney, referring to it as “a very good relationship.”

As the summit commenced on Monday, discussions projected beyond trade, addressing pressing global issues like the war in Ukraine. Carney had also invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to participate in the talks.

Notably, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the Calgary airport on Monday evening, joining the summit amid controversy surrounding his government. Protests against Modi were reported in response to alleged governmental links to violence involving Canadian citizens.

The G7 summit, which comprises France, the United States, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, Italy, and the European Union, is set to conclude on Tuesday with a continued focus on foreign policy and international relations.