Middle East Conflict News
LAST UPDATE: July 18, 2025
US did not support recent Israeli strikes on Syria, State Dept says
Reuters
The U.S. State Department stated it did not back Israel’s recent airstrikes in Damascus and southern Syria and is urging restraint, expressing concern about regional escalation.
Insight
Washington’s stance signals a shift—publicly distancing itself from Israeli military actions, which could affect Israel’s decision-making calculus.
Syria troops quit Druze heartland after violence leaves over 500 dead
Syrian government forces have withdrawn from Sweida under a ceasefire following sectarian clashes that killed over 500 people, with Druze militias now guarding the region.
Insight
The withdrawal highlights Syria’s fragmented control and the fragile nature of ceasefires, while sectarian tensions remain a barrier to long-term stability.
Israel PM says Syria ceasefire ‘obtained by force’
PM Netanyahu said the ceasefire was “obtained by force,” crediting Israeli strikes for pushing Syrian troops out of Druze areas.
Insight
Israel’s posture shows a willingness to use military pressure for diplomatic outcomes, reinforcing its deterrence strategy.
Syria’s president accuses Israel of seeking ‘endless chaos’ as his forces pull back
President al-Sharaa accused Israel of fostering “endless chaos” during Syria’s strategic withdrawal from Druze regions, condemning foreign interference.
Insight
His critique seeks to delegitimize Israeli actions and assert government sovereignty—yet the military pullback exposes Syria’s weakened control on the ground.
Erdogan says Turkey will not allow Syria to be divided
Erdogan declared that Turkey will not permit Syria to be divided or lose its multicultural identity, criticizing Israeli actions in southern Syria.
Insight
Turkey positions itself as protector of Syrian territorial integrity, using the Druze crisis to expand its regional influence.
Israel to raise defence spending to meet security challenges
Israel plans to significantly increase defence spending to address escalating regional threats, including operations in Syria.
Insight
Increased defence budgeting underlines a strategic recalibration, but could limit domestic spending and heighten societal tensions.
Netanyahu weaker but still in control after government walkouts
Despite ultra-Orthodox parties leaving the coalition, Netanyahu remains in power and may cling to authority through legislative support.
Insight
Netanyahu’s position has weakened, making governance more fragile—yet he retains enough leverage, highlighting his political adaptability.
Netanyahu tells Trump strike on Gaza church ‘a mistake’: White House
Netanyahu reportedly conveyed to Trump that the strike on Gaza’s Catholic Holy Family Church that killed three was “a mistake,” following intense US criticism.
Insight
The admission reflects diplomatic pressure and sensitivity to international opinion, signaling caution about religious and civilian harm.
