Middle East Conflict News
LAST UPDATE: July 12, 2025
EU pressing Israel to improve Gaza humanitarian situation, top diplomat says
The EU’s top diplomat reported that Israel has agreed to expand humanitarian access in Gaza by increasing aid trucks, crossing points, and distribution routes.
Insight
Though a modest concession, it reflects mounting EU pressure that may force Israel to ease restrictions — a test of EU leverage amidst worsening Gaza conditions.
EU “deeply regrets” U.S. sanctions on UN expert on Palestinians, says EU spokesperson
The EU expressed strong regret over U.S. sanctions on Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on Palestinian rights, reaffirming its support for the UN human rights framework.
Insight
The EU’s reaction highlights friction with the U.S. and a firm commitment to sustaining UN oversight — underscoring European willingness to dissent on human rights issues.
UN reports 798 deaths near Gaza aid hubs in six weeks
The UN OHCHR recorded at least 798 deaths since May 27 near Gaza aid distribution sites, including 615 near Gaza Humanitarian Foundation locations. Most were due to gunshots in areas with heavy Israeli military presence.
Insight
The figures reveal a humanitarian catastrophe at aid points, challenging the safety of current aid mechanisms and urging urgent redesign of distribution systems.
Lebanese president rules out normalisation with Israel: statement
President Joseph Aoun clarified that Lebanon seeks peace (i.e., no war) but not normalization with Israel, distinguishing between the two as separate objectives.
Insight
By separating “peace” from full normalization, Lebanon signals openness to stability without political alignment — navigating internal/hegemonic pressures while rejecting normalization.
Kurdish PKK militants burn weapons in Iraq to start disarmament
On July 11, thirty PKK militants burned weapons at a cave in northern Iraq, marking a symbolic start to disarmament after the PKK’s decision to dissolve its armed wing. Senior Turkish and Iraqi officials witnessed the ceremony.
Insight
The event marks a historic step toward peace with Turkey and possible reintegration of former fighters, reshaping regional stability after decades of insurgency.
