All articles tagged with #middle east crisis
Iran condemned a US strike on a wedding in Sirik as a war crime, while the US says it targeted IRGC sites; the incident is part of a broader regional escalation that includes attacks on ships and bases, diplomatic efforts to de-escalate, and heightened rhetoric from Israel and other allies.
China is promoting a seasonal 'Ice Silk Road' routing via the Arctic’s NSR as a potential alternative to chokepoints like the Suez and Bab al-Mandeb, with test runs claiming about 20 days of transit versus roughly 40–50 days by traditional routes, especially for time-critical cargo. However, ice limits operations to warmer months, and geopolitical and environmental risks—Russia’s control of the NSR, sanctions, and climate impacts—complicate feasibility. Analysts view it as a hedge or supplement, not a full replacement for existing routes, potentially increasing Arctic influence without immediately shifting global trade power.
BP reported a Q2 profit of $5.73 billion, more than doubling from the previous quarter as higher oil and gas prices driven by the Middle East crisis lift earnings; CEO Meg O'Neill says there is more to do, including a potential North Sea asset sale, with the industry facing windfall profits scrutiny amid rising energy bills.
Live updates show the US redeploying about 2,000 Marines from Okinawa to the Middle East aboard the Tripoli as Washington expands its regional footprint; Britain mulls mine-hunting drones to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while Japan and Australia say they won’t send ships; Japan begins releasing strategic oil reserves; Israel says it still has thousands of targets in Iran as Trump seeks a coalition to secure Hormuz, and oil prices rise amid supply fears.
The UN Security Council prepared votes on two draft resolutions addressing the Middle East crisis triggered by US-Israeli strikes on Iran: Bahrain-led text on behalf of the GCC and Jordan condemns Iran and calls for de-escalation, including guarantees for navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, while a shorter Russian draft urges restraint and negotiations without naming states. Bahrain’s draft drew broad co-sponsorship; after consultations it proceeded in blue. Post-script: on 11 March, Bahrain‑led resolution was adopted 13 in favour with 2 abstentions (China and Russia) and wide support (135 co-sponsors); Russia’s draft failed to reach the nine votes needed for adoption (4 in favour, 2 against, 9 abstentions).
Jet fuel cracks to record highs as Iran-related conflict disrupts Strait of Hormuz, tightening supply for Asia and Europe. Singapore jet fuel jumped about 140% to around $230 per barrel, while Europe’s jet premium to crude widened, with cracking margins surging to new records. The stress in jet fuel outpaced crude due to storage constraints and refinery constraints, with roughly 20% of global jet exports passing through Hormuz. If disruptions persist, airlines and consumers could face sustained higher costs and refining runs may stay restrained even if tensions ease.
The UK government has chartered its first flight specifically arranged to repatriate British nationals from Oman as Middle East attacks disrupt travel; seats will prioritise the most vulnerable and dependents, with the Foreign Office coordinating calls for eligible travellers and exploring additional routes while advising nationals to avoid travel to the region unless officially contacted.
The Israeli military announced it will use 'unprecedented force' in Gaza City, urging residents to evacuate southward amid ongoing heavy strikes and mass displacement, as international efforts and recognitions regarding Palestinian statehood unfold amidst the conflict.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has warned Gaza City residents to evacuate as Israeli forces prepare for a ground maneuver amid ongoing airstrikes and escalating violence in Gaza and Lebanon, with significant casualties and international condemnation.
The UN chief criticized a US-backed aid operation in Gaza as unsafe and deadly, highlighting that aid efforts are being strangled, aid workers are starving, and civilians are being killed while trying to access food. The conflict has resulted in over 56,000 Palestinian deaths since October 2023, with ongoing Israeli strikes causing significant civilian casualties and international concern over the safety and effectiveness of humanitarian aid.
The US dollar initially surged following military strikes on Iran, reflecting safe-haven demand, but analysts warn this rally may be short-lived due to underlying concerns over US fiscal policy, trade tensions, and global demand for US assets, with some experts doubting the likelihood of a complete closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Jordan's foreign minister summoned the Iranian ambassador to protest against Iranian comments that were seen as interference in the kingdom's internal affairs, following recent warnings from Iran's official media. This comes amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East, with various countries expressing concern and condemnation over recent events, including Iran's attack on Israel and its aftermath.
The Israeli military is investigating after a reported airstrike on a convoy in central Gaza killed four foreign nationals, including aid workers from the World Central Kitchen, and their Palestinian translator. The group was delivering food and supplies to northern Gaza when their convoy was struck. The nationalities of the victims include UK, Australia, and Poland, with the fourth aid worker's nationality unknown. The source of the strike remains unconfirmed, and the World Central Kitchen has expressed that humanitarian aid workers and civilians should never be targeted.
Senator Roger Wicker criticizes President Biden's plan to send Army logistics vessels to build a floating pier for delivering aid to Gaza, calling it a dangerous and illogical election-year gimmick. Wicker questions the lack of planning, protection for soldiers, and a delivery plan, emphasizing the risks and broader implications of the mission. He argues that the U.S. military is being stretched too thin and urges Biden to reconsider the mission in line with the "Weinberger Doctrine."
Hamas claims that those killed at al-Shifa hospital by the Israeli military were patients and displaced people, while Israel alleges that the hospital harbored militants and terrorist infrastructure. The US has drafted a UN resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, as Arab ministers meet in Cairo to discuss efforts to end the Israel-Hamas war. Meanwhile, tensions rise as Israel vows to take control of Rafah, even if it leads to a potential breach with the US, and a burning object is thrown at the Israeli embassy in The Hague.