Middle East Conflict News
LAST UPDATE: June 19, 2025
Trump says he ‘may or may not’ strike Iran
Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated (June 18) that a decision on military action against Iran is still undecided, saying “I may do it, I may not do it,” amid military assets positioning in the Middle East (reuters.com, ft.com).
Insight
Trump’s deliberate ambiguity serves to maximize strategic leverage—signaling both deterrence to Iran and reassurance to allies—while avoiding irrevocable escalation. This uncertainty is complicating diplomatic calculations region-wide.
France plans European ‘initiative’ to end Iran-Israel conflict: presidency
France, with close European partners, is preparing a diplomatic initiative to negotiate an end to the escalating Israel-Iran conflict, following a directive from President Macron amid intensified airstrikes .
Insight
By spearheading a collective European proposal, France aims to restore its diplomatic leadership post-nuclear deal and present a unified Western front, potentially re-engaging Iran in dialogue outside U.S. channels.
Russia tells US not to strike Iran, warns of nuclear catastrophe
Russian Deputy FM Sergei Ryabkov warned on June 18 that U.S. strikes on Iran would massively destabilize the Middle East and risk nuclear catastrophe, reiterating Moscow’s treaty partnership with Tehran .
Insight
Russia is projecting its diplomatic sway by cautioning the U.S.—positioning itself as a stabilizing broker while preserving ties with Iran, and signaling strategic depth amid growing superpower rivalry in the region.
Gulf states on Iran’s doorstep scramble for end of war
Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, Oman and Saudi Arabia are aggressively pursuing diplomacy to de-escalate the Israel-Iran confrontation, fearing instability and disruption to energy markets and security .
Insight
The Gulf monarchies are assuming regional crisis-management roles—acting as intermediaries to contain spillover and safeguard oil-flow stability—demonstrating increased strategic agency amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
China fears Israel-Iran conflict may get ‘out of control’
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi warned on June 18 that the conflict between Israel and Iran “may get out of control” and emphasized China’s mediation efforts, including calling for a ceasefire .
Insight
China is signaling a shift toward proactive diplomacy in the Middle East—balancing relations with all parties—while reinforcing its global image as a responsible power capable of crisis resolution on the international stage.
Iran to impose temporary restrictions on internet access, ministry says
On June 18, Iran announced it would temporarily restrict internet access across the country for “security reasons,” likely tied to managing protests and national events.
Insight
Such state-controlled online restrictions reflect Tehran’s focus on information control to suppress dissent and coordinate with security operations. These shifts impact civil liberties and raise concerns among rights groups and foreign observers.
Israel’s economy will gradually reopen, defense minister says
Israel’s Defense Minister announced that following a security de-escalation, the nation’s economy will be gradually reopened, including steps to resume normal business activity and movement.
Insight
This marks a deliberate move to restore economic stability and public morale, demonstrating resilience and intent to minimize civilian disruption amid ongoing tensions.
Israel to resume natural gas exports when military deems it’s safe, energy minister says
Israel declared it will resume natural gas exports once military authorities deem it safe, underlining the priority given to energy sector stability and economic output.
Insight
Coordinating national energy strategy with security assessments underscores the vital role of energy exports in Israel’s economic recovery and post-crisis planning.
