Middle East Conflict News
LAST UPDATE: June 11, 2025
Israeli foreign minister says UK sanctions on ministers is ‘unacceptable’
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar called the UK’s sanctions on two far‑right ministers “unacceptable” and said the government would convene to determine a response.
Insight
Saar’s strong reaction reflects Israel’s ruling coalition rallying around the targeted ministers, framing the sanctions as politically motivated. The move highlights diplomatic rifts even between close allies. By pushing back immediately, Israel is signaling it won’t accept external interference in domestic coalition politics. This episode may complicate Israel–UK relations and could impact cooperation on broader issues such as trade and defense. Finally, it underscores growing frustration within Israel toward Western criticism of its Gaza policies.
Britain sanctions Israeli far-right ministers over Gaza comments
The UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Norway imposed travel bans and asset freezes on Israeli ministers Itamar Ben‑Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich for incitement of violence against Palestinians.
Insight
This collective Western action marks a rare unified rebuke of Israeli government figures. It signals increasing international tolerance for sanctions in response to incendiary rhetoric from political leaders. Aligning across multiple countries amplifies diplomatic pressure on Netanyahu’s coalition. The sanctions may embolden moderate voices within Israel and escalate debates over human rights. Additionally, U.S. policymakers expressing dissent suggest Washington’s support could be more conditional and fragile.
US envoy says he does not think Palestinian state is US policy goal
U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee told Bloomberg that the U.S. no longer regards an independent Palestinian state within the West Bank and Gaza as a policy goal, citing lack of cultural conditions.
Insight
This statement marks a significant departure from traditional U.S. policy. Huckabee’s suggestion that a Palestinian state might instead emerge “elsewhere” signals a profound pivot. It may deepen alienation among Palestinian and Arab leaders and further undermine a two-state framework. The remarks also likely reflect the Trump-era administration’s influence on current diplomacy. Expect increased diplomatic friction with European partners and regional actors who still support Palestinian sovereignty.
Israel’s Netanyahu says significant progress made in talks to release hostages
Prime Minister Netanyahu announced that there has been “significant progress” in negotiations for the release of the remaining 55 hostages in Gaza, but cautioned that expectations should remain subdued.
Insight
Netanyahu’s statement seeks to reassure Israeli public sentiment while managing expectations. The remark reflects sensitive diplomacy amid domestic pressure for an immediate ceasefire. Washington’s increased assurances to Hamas suggest the U.S. is playing a more prominent mediator role. However, low optimism from Israeli officials indicates substantive hurdles remain. How this evolves will heavily impact Israel’s war strategy and internal political support.
Netanyahu’s coalition teeters as ultra-Orthodox allies threaten to dissolve parliament
Ultra-Orthodox parties, critical coalition partners, have threatened to vote for dissolving the Knesset unless a new military-draft exemption is agreed, risking government collapse.
Insight
The crisis underlines tensions between Netanyahu’s dependence on ultra-Orthodox partners and national military priorities during wartime. A coalition collapse would interrupt the government’s functioning at a sensitive moment in the Gaza conflict and hostage negotiations. Resolution may require last-minute bargaining, demonstrating the fragility of Israel’s governing coalition. It also prompts questions about long-term political stability and the reform capacity of future governments.
