Israel Launches Operation Rising Lion Against Iran Amid G7 Summit Tensions

In mid-June 2025, escalating tensions between Israel and Iran significantly influenced the 51st G7 summit held in Kananaskis, Canada. On June 13, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, targeting Iran's nuclear facilities and missile infrastructure, citing Iran's nuclear program as a direct threat. The operation involved coordinated airstrikes and drone attacks, resulting in substantial damage to Iran's missile capabilities.

The conflict's escalation prompted U.S. President Donald Trump to leave the G7 summit early, returning to Washington to manage the crisis. His abrupt departure caused concern among other G7 leaders, highlighting potential strains in international alliances. Additionally, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, present at the summit, secured military aid from Canada but did not meet with President Trump, raising questions about U.S. support for Ukraine amid the unfolding Middle East crisis.

These developments underscore the complex interplay between regional conflicts and global diplomatic engagements, emphasizing the need for coordinated international responses to emerging security challenges.

The relationship between Israel and Iran has been fraught with tension since the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which replaced the pro-Western Imperial State of Iran with an Islamic republic under Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Post-revolution, Iran's leadership has been divided into conservatives and moderates. Conservative leaders have often pledged to annihilate Israel, viewing it as a foreign and imperialist presence in the Middle East. Conversely, moderate leaders have advocated for more conciliatory approaches toward the West. Iran has supported groups like Hezbollah and Hamas, which oppose Israel, further straining relations.

On June 13, 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the launch of Operation Rising Lion, a military campaign targeting Iran's main enrichment facility in Natanz, its nuclear scientists, and parts of its ballistic missile program. Netanyahu described Iran's nuclear efforts as "a clear and present danger to Israel's very survival" and emphasized that the operation would continue "for as many days as it takes."

The operation was a coordinated effort involving over 200 fighter jets, including multiple F-35I "Adir" aircraft, targeting over 100 sites across Iran. Key targets included the Natanz Nuclear Facility, where the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant (PFEP) was destroyed, and the Esfahan Nuclear Technology Center, which suffered significant damage. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that only the above-ground portion of the PFEP was destroyed, with no indication of a physical attack on the underground cascade hall.

In the months leading up to the airstrikes, Israel's intelligence agency, Mossad, conducted covert operations within Iran. Mossad agents smuggled and assembled explosive drones inside Iran, which were used to disable missile launchers and air defenses. This clandestine activity facilitated the success of the subsequent airstrikes by degrading Iran's immediate missile launch capabilities.

The escalation between Israel and Iran had a profound impact on the G7 summit in Kananaskis, Canada. U.S. President Donald Trump left the summit early to return to Washington and manage the crisis, causing concern among other G7 leaders and highlighting potential strains in international alliances.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who attended the summit, secured C$2 billion ($1.47 billion) in military aid from Canada but did not meet with President Trump. This absence raised questions about U.S. support for Ukraine amid the unfolding Middle East crisis.

The summit concluded without a joint statement on Ukraine, as divisions among G7 nations became apparent. President Trump's early departure and limited engagement with Ukraine left the meeting's impact muted.

President Trump demanded an unconditional surrender from Iran amidst escalating tensions with Israel. His strong statements on social media and increased U.S. military presence in the Middle East raised fears of a broader conflict.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba stated that Japan and the United States have yet to reach a comprehensive tariff agreement due to ongoing disagreements. Speaking after the G7 summit, Ishiba emphasized the need for a mutually beneficial trade deal that protects Japan's national interests.

The Israeli airstrikes resulted in significant civilian casualties in Iran, with reports indicating that over 90% of the 224 killed were civilians. This has led to grief and unrest among the Iranian populace. Additionally, the conflict has caused divisions among G7 nations, highlighting the complex interplay between regional conflicts and global diplomatic engagements.

These developments underscore the complex interplay between regional conflicts and global diplomatic engagements, emphasizing the need for coordinated international responses to emerging security challenges.