Middle East Conflict News
LAST UPDATE: July 16, 2025
France says UN conference to work on post-war Gaza, Palestinian state recognition
France confirmed a UN conference will be held July 28–29 to plan post-war Gaza and pave the way for Palestinian state recognition; the meeting was postponed due to U.S. pressure and regional disturbances. Macron is now unlikely to attend, reducing expectations for announcements.
Insight
The conference reflects ongoing international efforts to shape Gaza’s future and push for a Palestinian state, though diplomatic hurdles remain.
US envoy says working to restore calm in Syria, calls clashes ‘worrisome’
U.S. Special Envoy Tom Barrack described the violence in southern Syria’s Sweida province as “worrisome” and stated that the U.S. is working towards a peaceful and inclusive resolution involving Druze, Bedouin tribes, the Syrian government, and Israel.
Insight
The U.S. is positioning itself as mediator amid escalating sectarian and regional tensions in Syria, emphasizing inclusive solutions.
Israel strikes Syrian city, vows to protect Druze from government forces
Israel carried out airstrikes near Sweida in southwestern Syria to protect the Druze minority and enforce demilitarization; the strikes follow deadly clashes involving Druze, Bedouin fighters, and Syrian government reinforcements, with continued fighting despite declared ceasefires.
Insight
Israel’s military involvement underscores its strategic interest in protecting Druze communities and preventing Syrian government entrenchment near its borders.
