Middle East Conflict News
LAST UPDATE: July 11, 2025
Rubio: Hopeful on Gaza deal, Witkoff to hold talks soon
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on July 10 that the U.S. is optimistic about securing a Gaza ceasefire. He noted U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff would hold proximity talks “soon” and that dialogue is closer than it has been recently (TradingView).
Insight
Rubio’s comments signal renewed U.S. diplomatic momentum and alignment among senior officials, possibly marking a strategic pivot to leverage proximity diplomacy—and bolster regional confidence—via Qatar and Egypt’s facilitation.
EU outlines options for political action against Israel on human rights
The EU evaluated up to 10 political tools—including visa suspensions, import bans from settlements, ministerial sanctions, and arms embargoes—targeting human rights violations by Israel in Gaza .
Insight
The EU is preparing a calibrated, multi-track approach that avoids abrupt sanctions but retains leverage. These options reflect a deepening willingness to operationalize human rights criteria in external relations.
German foreign minister: Iran must pressure Houthis to end attacks
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul urged Iran on July 10 to use its influence over the Houthis to stop maritime attacks in the Red Sea, condemning the assaults and demanding Tehran act .
Insight
Germany is strategically linking Iran’s regional sway with maritime security, effectively sending a message that Tehran holds responsibility for proxy actions—signaling a broader diplomatic leverage attempt.
Houthi leader says group won’t permit sea passage of goods related to Israel
Houthi leader Abdul‑Malik al‑Houthi announced on July 10 a continued ban on shipping any goods tied to Israel through the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, or Arabian Sea .
Insight
The Houthis are amplifying their maritime blockade stance in solidarity with Gaza, further threatening global shipping links. Their firm stance raises insurance costs and increases pressure on naval security strategies.
Israel will strike Iran again if threatened, defence minister says
Defence Minister Israel Katz warned on July 10 that Israel would again strike Iranian targets—such as Tehran, Isfahan, and Tabriz—if Iran posed a threat, reaffirming capability to respond with greater force .
Insight
Katz’s declaration reinforces the deterrence posture established after June’s 12-day air campaign, signaling readiness for escalation to any future threat. This may influence Iran’s strategic calculations.
Hamas says Israeli troops sticking point in truce talks as Gaza pounded
Hamas stated that Israeli military presence in Gaza remains a major stumbling block in ceasefire negotiations, intensifying pressure as Israeli strikes kill scores, including 52 reported on July 10 .
Insight
The insistence on Israeli troop withdrawal highlights deep mistrust and core friction in the truce. Humanitarian toll and issues like the Morag corridor complicate and may delay any breakthrough.
