Browsing: War and Conflict

Lebanon and Israel are set for historic diplomatic talks in Washington after over a month of war, featuring Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This marks their first direct dialogue since 1993, aimed at ensuring long-term security and control over Lebanon’s territory.

False claims on social media assert the European Council has launched a UK Office of Strategic Alignment in Brussels, purportedly aimed at reintegrating the UK into the EU. A spokesperson clarified this is misinformation, affirming that no such office exists as the UK seeks deeper ties post-Brexit.

Palestinian Foreign Affairs Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin has accused Israel of failing to protect Palestinians from escalating settler violence, suggesting occupation forces often support such actions. Aghabekian highlighted the urgent need for policy change to halt these violent practices in the West Bank.

US President Donald Trump has urged NATO allies to devise a plan within days to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, crucial for global energy supplies. Following talks with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Washington, expectations for military deployment and action remain amidst European reluctance.

Pope Leo XIV condemned the US-Israel war on Iran, labelling the “delusion of omnipotence” as dangerous during a prayer in St. Peter’s Basilica. He urged political leaders to prioritise peace processes, denouncing the use of religion to justify violence and calling for an end to war.

French President Emmanuel Macron met Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, focusing on the Iran crisis and advocating for diplomacy. Both leaders criticised US President Donald Trump’s inflammatory rhetoric. Macron’s visit, devoid of political meetings with Italian officials, underscored institutional and religious engagement.

A ceasefire between the United States and Iran was announced on Tuesday after six weeks of conflict in the Middle East, contingent upon Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz. However, instability persists as Iran closed the waterway in response to Israeli attacks, complicating energy security for European consumers.

After a night of pounding Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon, hospitals in Beirut are struggling to deal with casualties after one…

US Vice-President JD Vance is set to visit Pakistan for peace talks with Iran, amidst a fragile ceasefire between the two nations. This diplomatic engagement highlights the ongoing efforts to stabilise relations in the region, indicating a significant move in international negotiations.

The European Commission has rejected proposals by Iran and the US to impose fees on vessels crossing the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that international law mandates free navigation. Affected companies retain discretion on any payments, amid ongoing shipping disruptions in the region.