G7 Leaders Call for Lebanon Ceasefire and Energy Shift as US-Iran Deal Reshapes Regional Order

Leaders of the Group of Seven nations have called for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon and pledged to reduce global dependence on the Strait of Hormuz, as they responded to a fragile interim agreement aimed at ending the war between the United States and Iran.

The summit, held in Evian-les-Bains on Lake Geneva, took place as details of the US-Iran understanding emerged ahead of its expected formal announcement on Friday in nearby Switzerland. The agreement is intended to extend a ceasefire reached in April and open the door to broader negotiations on a long-term settlement.

In a joint statement, G7 leaders said talks must address regional security concerns and ensure Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon. They also expressed readiness to support implementation of the deal, including efforts to secure maritime trade routes once shipping through the Strait of Hormuz resumes.

The summit brought US President Donald Trump together with leaders of Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan, many of whom share Washington’s concerns about Iran’s nuclear programme but did not endorse the decision to go to war. Several leaders also voiced concern that Iran had strengthened its position by maintaining control over key regional leverage points during the conflict.

Alongside diplomatic discussions, the G7 announced plans to diversify energy supply routes in order to reduce vulnerability linked to the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant share of global oil shipments normally passes. A coalition led by Britain and France is expected to assist in securing shipping lanes once conditions allow.

The US-Iran memorandum of understanding, though not yet published, reportedly extends the ceasefire for another 60 days to allow negotiations on a final agreement. Early indications suggest Iran would be permitted to resume oil exports, while further talks are expected to address its nuclear programme and enriched uranium stockpile.

However, key disputes remain unresolved. Iran continues to support regional armed groups, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, and questions remain over missile capabilities and long-term security guarantees. Israel, which was not included in the negotiations, has expressed opposition to any arrangement that allows Iranian influence in the region to persist.

Tensions over Lebanon featured prominently in discussions. Israeli forces remain deployed in parts of southern Lebanon following months of conflict, while Hezbollah has refused calls to disarm. The G7 urged an immediate ceasefire and demanded disarmament of the group, while also calling for a broader political settlement.

The disagreement has exposed divisions between Israel and the United States, with President Trump openly criticising Israeli leadership during the summit. “I’m not happy with the way things have been handled,” he said, while also defending US involvement in the conflict.

Energy markets reacted to the developments with further declines in oil prices, as expectations grew that the Strait of Hormuz could reopen. Brent crude fell below $80 a barrel, reaching its lowest level since the conflict began.

The G7 also reaffirmed its support for Ukraine and agreed to strengthen sanctions on Russia, underscoring broader efforts to stabilise global security amid overlapping conflicts.