G7 backs US-Iran deal, demands Lebanon ceasefire and Hezbollah disarmament

Leaders of the G7 nations have called for a ceasefire in Lebanon and expressed support for an interim US-Iran deal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict. The summit, held in Evian-les-Bains, France, also saw leaders commit to diversifying energy supply routes to lessen reliance on the Strait of Hormuz. Details of the US-Iran ceasefire agreement, expected to be formally unveiled soon, are trickling out, with the deal intended to pave the way for negotiations toward a final settlement. The war has already resulted in over 7,000 casualties, primarily in Iran and Lebanon. The G7 statement emphasized the need for negotiations to address regional threats posed by Iran and prevent it from obtaining nuclear weapons. While allies share concerns about Iran's nuclear program, they did not endorse the decision to go to war and worry that Tehran gained leverage by withstanding the conflict and asserting control over the strait. A coalition led by Britain and France is prepared to help secure shipping lanes once the Strait of Hormuz reopens. The memorandum of understanding extends the existing ceasefire by 60 days. However, the US president appears to have achieved limited initial objectives, as Iran's government remains in place, its nuclear stockpile is not surrendered, and its support for groups like Hezbollah continues. The agreement states Iran will not possess nuclear weapons, a reiteration of its long-standing position, with further discussions planned regarding its enriched uranium stockpile. This outcome could still draw criticism for the US president ahead of upcoming elections.

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We underline the need for the negotiation ... to address the threats posed by Iran in the region and beyond and ensure that they never obtain a nuclear weapon.