Middle East Conflict News
LAST UPDATE: June 24, 2025
Iran fires missiles at US airbase in Qatar, Doha says attack intercepted, no casualties
Iran launched missiles at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar on June 23, but Qatar’s air defenses intercepted them all; Iran had given prior warning and no casualties were reported .
Insight
The calibrated strike—warning issued, no hits—demonstrates Iran’s intent to retaliate without escalation, yet still risks destabilizing Gulf security and global air travel.
Trump Warns Against Rising Oil Prices Following Iran Attack
Former President Trump urged energy producers to bring down oil prices after Middle East tensions, posting on social media: “EVERYONE, KEEP OIL PRICES DOWN… YOU’RE PLAYING RIGHT INTO THE HANDS OF THE ENEMY.” .
Insight
Trump’s directive highlights concern about economic fallout from crude volatility. It underlines tensions between geopolitical strategy and domestic economic management ahead of a potential run in 2026.
Israel signals Iran campaign can end soon but much hinges on Tehran
Israeli officials said they’ve nearly fulfilled their campaign objectives targeting nuclear and missile infrastructure and will halt the strikes if Iran de-escalates. However, they warned operations will continue if Iran fails to pull back. (reuters.com, washingtonpost.com)
Insight
This indicates Israel is open to a conditional ceasefire, placing the ball in Tehran’s court—signaling a strategic move toward de-escalation without appearing weak.
US strikes on Iran did not violate international law, NATO’s Rutte says
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte stated that recent U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites were legally justified and did not breach international law, asserting that Iran must not develop nuclear weapons.
Insight
Rutte’s defense adds NATO legitimacy to U.S. actions, signaling alliance unity—but may deepen rifts with partners calling for restraint.
Israel and Iran agree ceasefire to end 12-day war, Trump says
Former President Trump claimed he brokered a phased ceasefire: Iran agreed to stop its strikes by 4 a.m. Tehran time, and Israel will follow after completing ongoing operations, marking an end to a 12‑day conflict.
Insight
If successful, this could mark a rare diplomatic win—but the arrangement is fragile and hinges on mutual compliance amid uncertainty.
Germany’s Merz sees no reason to criticize Israeli, US attacks on Iran
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated on June 23 that there is “no reason” to criticize Israel or the U.S. for their recent military actions against Iran. While acknowledging the risks, he emphasized that allowing Iran to continue advancing its nuclear program was not an option. (reuters.com, politico.eu)
Insight
Merz’s stance shows strong alignment with Western military measures aimed at halting Iran’s nuclear ambitions, signaling Berlin’s growing assertiveness in defense policy and its backing of transatlantic responses.
Airlines Retreat From Gulf as Iran Crisis Hits Uncharted Phase
Major carriers, including British Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Air India, have halted or rerouted flights over the Persian Gulf in response to escalating military tensions between Israel, Iran, and the U.S., causing widespread travel disruptions.
Insight
The extensive flight suspensions reflect profound aviation-sector exposure to geopolitical volatility, underlining how regional military operations directly affect global mobility and commerce.
UAE airspace is closed based on flight paths and air traffic control audio, FlightRadar says
FlightRadar posted audio and flight-tracking evidence indicating that UAE airspace has been closed following heightened activity in Middle East airspace. This follows similar closures in Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait.
Insight
The closure signals serious precautionary measures by Gulf states, demonstrating rapid regional response to security threats and creating ripple effects through global aviation networks.
