Middle East Conflict News
LAST UPDATE: June 26, 2025
Trump urges end to ‘witch hunt’ Netanyahu corruption trial
On June 26, former U.S. President Trump publicly demanded Israel cancel Prime Minister Netanyahu’s corruption trial, calling it a “politically motivated witch hunt.” He framed it as unwarranted during wartime, urging an immediate end or pardon .
Insight
Trump’s intervention signals deep personal and political alignment with Netanyahu. This U.S. intrusion into Israeli judicial affairs may strain diplomatic norms and amplify debates over foreign influence in domestic legal systems.
Macron Urges Netanyahu to Uphold Israel-Iran Ceasefire, Resume Nuclear Talks
On June 25, President Macron urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to honor the ceasefire with Iran and restart nuclear negotiations, also calling for a Gaza ceasefire and humanitarian aid in a phone call shared on X .
Insight
Macron’s appeal reflects France’s dual role: security guarantor and mediator. It underscores Europe’s proactive engagement to stabilize Middle East tensions by coupling ceasefire efforts with nuclear diplomacy.
Tulsi Gabbard Says ‘New Intelligence’ Shows Iran’s Nuclear Sites Were Destroyed
On June 25, 2025, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard announced that “new intelligence” indicates U.S. strikes destroyed Iran’s nuclear facilities at Natanz, Fordow, and Esfahan. She claimed that rebuilding would take years—contrasting with earlier Pentagon leaks suggesting only a temporary setback of a few months (wsj.com).
Insight
Gabbard’s statement tightly supports Trump’s narrative, positioning intelligence strategically to bolster claims of long-term efficacy of the strikes. Her public rebuttal of leaked reports demonstrates a growing politicization of intelligence assessments and highlights that executive messaging may be prioritized over cautious, evidence-based analysis.
