Canada – Amid rising hostilities between Israel and Iran, the United States has reiterated its support for Israel’s right to self-defence, even as it distances itself from directly participating in military operations. Explosions were reported in Tehran shortly after former U.S. President Donald Trump urged American citizens to evacuate the Iranian capital. Simultaneously, Iranian missiles continue to target Israeli territory, triggering multiple air raid sirens, although no major damage has been reported.
President Trump, attending the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, cut short his visit citing the escalating threat of regional conflict. He returned to Washington late Monday night to convene an emergency meeting of the National Security Council (NSC). Trump also cancelled planned meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.
G7 Issues Joint Statement Backing Israel
In a joint communiqué, the Group of Seven (G7) nations — comprising the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the European Union — affirmed Israel’s right to self-defence. The statement emphasised the group’s commitment to regional peace and stability while calling for a de-escalation of hostilities, including a ceasefire in Gaza.
Despite affirming support for Israel’s security, U.S. officials have clarified that Washington will not engage directly in Israel’s military campaign against Iran. However, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced the deployment of additional American forces to the Middle East as a precautionary measure.
Broadcast Station Bombed During Live News
In a dramatic development, Israeli forces reportedly targeted the headquarters of Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) in Tehran. The attack occurred during a live broadcast, forcing anchor Sahar Emami to suspend reporting temporarily as parts of the building collapsed. Despite the chaos, Emami later resumed the broadcast. Israel claimed the facility was being used for military purposes.
International humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions, mandates the protection of journalists in conflict zones. A 2015 UN Security Council resolution also reinforces the obligation of all parties to safeguard media professionals from targeted attacks.
Fuel Crisis Looms Amid Threat to Close Strait of Hormuz
Concerns are growing over potential economic fallout from the conflict, especially regarding global energy supplies. Iranian lawmaker Esmail Kosari warned that Tehran is considering the closure of the Strait of Hormuz — a critical maritime chokepoint through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil and one-third of global liquefied natural gas exports pass.
Although Iran may not be able to fully block the strait, attempts to interfere with shipping traffic in its territorial waters could severely disrupt global energy markets. Reports indicate that some major oil shipping companies, including Frontline, the world’s fourth-largest oil tanker firm, are already refusing to transit the strait due to security concerns.
Experts warn that any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz would likely lead to a sharp spike in fuel prices worldwide, including in Europe and Ireland, potentially triggering a broader energy crisis.
As the international community urges restraint, the situation remains highly volatile, with the potential to expand into a wider regional or even global conflict if diplomatic efforts falter.
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