Middle East & Central Asia News
LAST UPDATE: July 9, 2025
US hopes to have an Azerbaijan‑Armenia peace deal soon, Rubio says
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism on July 8 over an imminent peace deal between Azerbaijan and Armenia, crediting diplomatic efforts since the 2025 elections and describing it as a “great testament” to the administration’s leadership.
Insight
Washington is positioning itself as a key mediator in the South Caucasus. Rubio’s remarks tie the potential agreement to Trump-era diplomacy, highlighting U.S. influence in resolving long-standing regional conflict.
Pakistan approves four potential bidders for national airline PIA
On July 8, Pakistan’s government approved four consortia—including industrial conglomerates, a military-backed firm, and Airblue—to bid on a 51–100% stake in state-owned Pakistan International Airlines. Due diligence will proceed over 2–2.5 months, with final bids due in Q4 2025.
Insight
This marks Pakistan’s first major privatization under its $7 billion IMF program, signaling a commitment to reform. Privatizing PIA could alleviate fiscal burdens but may face public resistance.
Libya discusses plan to cut migration with EU ministers
On July 8 in Tripoli, Libya’s unity government, led by PM Dbeibah, outlined a national campaign against human trafficking and illegal migration during talks with EU ministers from Italy, Greece, and Malta, along with Commissioner Brunner. The plan targets the estimated 3–4 million illegal migrants in the country.
Insight
Libya is seeking EU support to manage migration, balancing internal political divisions. The joint strategy underscores shared EU–Libya interests, but effectiveness hinges on Libya’s fragmented authority and human rights concerns.
Tunisia sentences top politicians including ex‑PM, opposition leader to 12 to 35 years in prison
A Tunisian court sentenced 21 senior figures—including Ennahda leader Rached Ghannouchi (14 years), ex‑PM Youssef Chahed, and former security/intelligence chiefs—to prison terms between 12 and 35 years on charges of conspiring against the state. Many defendants are abroad. Critics see it as President Saied’s systematic crackdown on political opposition since his 2021 power grab.
Insight
The harsh sentences illustrate the deepening authoritarian shift under Kais Saied, using the judiciary to neutralize dissent. This move risks further alienating international partners and domestic moderates, and may lead to increased political unrest.
Libya’s eastern-based government bars entry of EU migration commissioner, three ministers
Libya’s rival eastern government, which does not recognize the UN-backed unity administration, blocked the EU migration commissioner and three EU ministers’ entry to eastern Libya during migration talks. These ministers sought to discuss a plan to limit migration via Libya to Europe.
Insight
The rejection highlights Libya’s fractured authority and undermines EU efforts to stem migration through cooperation. It signals that any EU–Libya migration accord requires engagement with both rival administrations.
