Recent developments in the conflict in the Middle East show complex and varied dynamics. One of the main issues that persists is the tension between Israel and Palestine. Stagnant peace talks and recent attacks on the Gaza Strip have led to thousands of refugees and increasing casualties. Israel’s military action to respond to rocket attacks from the Hamas group sparked international condemnation, drawing attention to a deepening humanitarian crisis. On the other hand, the conflict in Syria continues despite diplomatic efforts. Bashar al-Assad regime forces, supported by Russia and Iran, are increasingly controlling strategic areas. Meanwhile, opposition groups, such as the Free Syrian Army, are experiencing increasing pressure. The existence of the ISIS group, which, although declining, still poses a threat in several areas, shows that full stability is still far from being achieved. Additionally, tensions between Iran and Sunni Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia, continue to rise. Iran’s nuclear program and its support for armed groups in the region, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon, have sparked concerns and proxy conflicts involving Gulf countries and the West. International sanctions on Iran remain in place, and negotiations to return to the nuclear deal the US abandoned in 2018 remain deadlocked. Yemen is also experiencing ongoing chaos. The conflict that began in 2014 between the Houthis and the internationally recognized government, aided by a Saudi Arabian-led coalition, has shown no signs of resolution. The humanitarian tragedy in Yemen is one of the worst in the world, with millions of Yemenis forced to face hunger and disease. In the Gulf region, the normalization of relations between several Arab countries and Israel, as part of the Abraham Accords, is in the spotlight. Although this move increased cooperation in the economic and security fields, it also created new tensions with the Palestinians. This action influenced domestic political dynamics and exacerbated tensions between pro- and anti-normalization groups. In this context, the participation of large countries such as the US, Russia and the European Union is very important. The US under the new administration demonstrated a more balanced approach in foreign policy towards Israel and Palestine, seeking to facilitate dialogue. On the other hand, Russia is trying to strengthen its position as a mediator in Syria and re-raise issues of regional stability. Turning to Libya, although the long-standing civil war has subsided, the transition to a stable government still faces various challenges. Planned elections were postponed and local clashes persisted. Foreign support for various factions also complicates efforts towards unification and reconciliation. The refugee crisis resulting from conflicts in various Middle Eastern countries also adds an urgent humanitarian dimension. Millions of people have been forced to flee to neighboring countries or Europe, creating challenges for host countries in terms of resources and social integration. International aid efforts are still needed to respond to the basic needs of refugees until the crisis is resolved. Thus, current developments in the Middle East reflect a political jigsaw puzzle full of challenges and expectations, where global and regional consensus will play a crucial role in determining the course of a more stable future.
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