Middle East Conflict News
LAST UPDATE: July 22, 2025
All six Bank of Israel MPC members backed holding key rate at 4.5% this month, minutes show
Minutes from the July 7 Bank of Israel meeting show unanimous support for keeping the policy rate unchanged at 4.5%, reflecting caution amid uncertain economic and regional conditions.
Insight
The unanimous hold signals disciplined policy amid inflation around target and geopolitical concern—highlighting the central bank’s balancing act between economic momentum and external shocks.
UK, France and 23 other nations condemn Israel over ‘inhumane killing’ of civilians
A coalition of 25 Western countries demanded that Israel immediately stop actions they described as “inhumane killing” of Palestinians, citing heavy civilian deaths near food aid sites.
Insight
This coordinated condemnation ramps up international pressure on Israel, amplifying humanitarian concerns and potentially influencing diplomatic channels amid the Gaza conflict.
Israel sends tanks into Gaza’s Deir al-Balah, hostage families concerned
Israeli tanks entered Deir al-Balah—where some remaining hostages are believed held—raising alarm among families about increased danger during military operations.
Insight
The tank incursion escalates ground offensive intensity and intensifies hostage risk, complicating humanitarian and ceasefire negotiations in an already volatile conflict zone.
US cannot ‘compel’ Israel to do anything, US special envoy says in Lebanon
U.S. special envoy Thomas Barrack stated in Beirut that the U.S. “cannot compel” Israel regarding its military decisions concerning Lebanon, emphasizing only influence—not control.
Insight
The comment candidly clarifies U.S. limits in restraining Israeli military choices, signaling diplomacy over intervention—even as regional tensions persist.
Bedouin civilians leave Syria’s Sweida as tense truce holds
Hundreds of Bedouin civilians have evacuated Sweida under a fragile U.S.-backed truce, after deadly clashes with Druze militias and reports of severe human rights abuses.
Insight
The evacuation reveals the precarious nature of Syria’s sectarian violence despite ceasefire efforts. It underscores urgent humanitarian needs and the central state’s weakened authority.
