G7 foreign ministers' communique warns of new sanctions on Iran and urges de-escalation

Italy - Group of Seven foreign ministers warned of new sanctions against Iran on Friday for its drone and missile attack on Israel, and urged both sides to avoid an escalation of the conflict.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, who chaired the meeting of ministers of industrialized countries, said the agenda of the three-day meeting was changed on Friday to address the latest developments.

Early Friday, Iran fired air defenses at a major air base and a nuclear site near the central city of Isfahan after spotting drones. They were suspected to be part of an Israeli attack in retaliation for Tehran's unprecedented drone-and-missile assault on the country last weekend.


Tajani didn't immediately address the incident, but urged both sides to exercise restraint.

"The G7 worked and will work for a de-escalation," Tajani said in a closing press conference. He said that would include a de-escalation of tensions, followed by a cease-fire, liberation of hostages and aid to the Palestinian people.

The foreign ministers condemned Iran's recent attacks against Israel, writing that "the G-7 supports the security of Israel."