VAUX‑DE‑CERNAY, France — Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) nations on Friday issued a joint call for an immediate end to attacks on civilians in the ongoing war involving Iran, underscoring deep divisions over the conflict and the need for a diplomatic solution amid mounting global concerns.
Meeting at the historic 12th‑century Abbaye des Vaux‑de‑Cernay outside Paris, the G7 ministers representing the United States, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Canada, and Japan, along with the European Union, adopted a statement urging a halt to hostilities that have devastated civilian infrastructure and disrupted energy markets. They also called for the restoration of safe, toll‑free navigation through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively blocked, contributing to surging oil prices and global trade disruptions.
Policymakers reaffirmed the importance of minimizing humanitarian harm and coordinating international efforts to cushion partners and civilian populations from the impact of the conflict. Their joint statement also emphasized broader economic repercussions including disruptions to energy, fertilizer and commercial supply chains.
The discussions took place against a backdrop of heightened skepticism among U.S. allies over Washington’s handling of the situation. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio faced persistent questioning from European counterparts who have expressed concern over the U.S. and Israeli military operations, as well as over the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Several ministers pressed for clarity on the aims and endgame of U.S. strategy in the Middle East.
European officials, including German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, reiterated that Europe is prepared to play a role in ensuring security in the Strait of Hormuz once hostilities lessen, while also advocating a stronger coordinated approach to both the Iran conflict and the ongoing Russia‑Ukraine war.
Allies also addressed interconnected global security challenges. Kyiv’s representatives at the meeting highlighted the risk that the Middle East conflict could divert attention from sustained support for Ukraine in its war with Russia, underlining the need to maintain focus and resources on multiple fronts.
Friday’s talks reaffirmed the G7’s commitment to diplomatic engagement and collective efforts to mitigate the wide‑ranging impacts of the Iran war, even as disagreements over strategy and shared burden‑sharing persist among allies.
Edgardo Hernal started college at UP Diliman and received his BA in Economics from San Sebastian College, Manila, and Masters in Information Systems Management from Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University in Oak Brook, IL. He has 25 years of copy editing and management experience at Thomson West, a subsidiary of Thomson Reuters.
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