Latest Developments in Conflict in the Middle East

The development of conflicts in the Middle East always attracts world attention. In recent months, significant changes have occurred, affecting the political and social dynamics of the region. One of the conflicts that is in the spotlight is the tension between Israel and Palestine. In September 2023, large-scale protests occurred in the West Bank, due to Israel’s ongoing settlement policy. Hamas and Fatah groups are trying to re-engage the Palestinian people in facing this challenge, although internal divisions are still a significant issue. Meanwhile, the situation in Syria is still unstable. After more than a decade of conflict, various armed groups and Bashar al-Assad’s government are still fighting for power. In August, air strikes launched by government forces succeeded in capturing several key areas in the north, but the humanitarian costs remained high. Many Syrian refugees are now seeking refuge in neighboring countries such as Türkiye and Lebanon, which has brought new pressure for stability in the region. In Iraq, the presence of the ISIS group is increasing again. In September, reports said the group launched sporadic attacks in western Iraq, targeting security forces and vital infrastructure. Although the Iraqi government has declared that ISIS has been territorially defeated, the threat they pose remains real, and tensions between the Sunni and Shiite communities remain a complex issue. Yemen also did not escape attention. The civil war that has been ongoing since 2015 between the internationally recognized government and Houthi rebels continues. A UN-brokered peace agreement in early 2023 showed no significant results. Despite a temporary ceasefire, access to humanitarian aid remains limited, and civilian suffering has reached a critical point. J looking towards Iran, tensions between Tehran and Western countries, especially the United States, are increasing. After talks on a nuclear deal stalled, Iran accelerated its uranium enrichment program, worrying many. Meanwhile, international demonstrations against Iran’s actions at home, especially after the rise of the women’s movement fighting against repression, add to the complexity of the situation. This entire conflict illustrates how complex geopolitics is in the Middle East, where every country is interconnected historically, politically, and socially. A solution to the current conflict appears increasingly remote, and the international community must play an active role in providing support to efforts at constructive dialogue. It is predicted that the existing uncertainty and tension will continue, so it is important to continue to monitor developments and try to find a path towards sustainable peace.