Middle East Conflict News
LAST UPDATE: July 25, 2025
French plan to recognise Palestinian state draws fire from Israel, US
French President Macron will formally recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September 2025—the first major Western power to do so—prompting condemnation from Israel and the U.S. (Reuters, Reuters)
Insight
Macron’s move is a bold diplomatic gesture aimed at reviving the two-state process, but risks alienating close allies and intensifying regional polarization over Israel–Palestine.
UK backs future Palestinian statehood but says ceasefire the top priority
The UK reiterated support for eventual Palestinian state recognition but emphasized the immediate need to secure a ceasefire in Gaza to alleviate humanitarian suffering. (Reuters, Reuters)
Insight
The UK’s stance balances long-term political support for a two-state solution with pressing humanitarian pragmatism, signaling a more cautious approach than France’s.
Saudi Arabia hails ‘historic’ France recognition of Palestinian state
Saudi Arabia praised France’s upcoming recognition of a Palestinian state as “historic,” framing it as affirming international backing for Palestinian self-determination. (バロンズ, ガルフニュース)
Insight
The Saudi endorsement underscores regional Arab alignment behind France’s initiative, aiming to enhance diplomatic legitimacy and pressure other states to follow suit.
Gaza truce talks expected to resume next week as Israel studies Hamas response, Egypt’s Al Qahera news says
Ceasefire negotiations are likely to resume next week after Israel and the U.S. recalled their delegations to assess Hamas’ latest response. Hamas said mediators welcomed its proposal. (Reuters, DAWN)
Insight
The pause reveals deep mistrust, yet continuation of talks signals pressure for compromise amid worsening humanitarian conditions and global scrutiny.
Iran and Europeans begin nuclear talks with questions over future UN sanctions
Iran entered its first face‑to‑face talks with E3 (France, UK, Germany) in Istanbul, with discussions focusing on the potential extension or reimposition of UN sanctions. (Reuters, Reuters)
Insight
The high-stakes dialogue reflects diplomatic recalibration: Iran resists further sanction mandates, while Europe presses for clarity and resumption of IAEA oversight before sanctions lapse in October.
U.N. nuclear watchdog chief says Iran ready to restart technical conversations
The head of the IAEA said Iran is prepared to resume technical-level discussions soon, aiming to ease inspection blockages and re-establish cooperation. (Reuters)
Insight
Early signals of Iran’s tactical cooperation may help rebuild trust, although broader political progress will hinge on whether it meets IAEA criteria and avoids renewed sanctions.