As the conflict in the Middle East continues, Donald Trump has alternated between signalling possible de-escalation and threatening further military action, leaving the situation highly uncertain. Increased military deployments in the Gulf region and continued strikes have heightened concerns about potential ground operations, particularly around strategic areas such as the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts warn that even limited intervention could quickly expand into a prolonged and wider conflict. Both sides are at least discussing possible terms for an end to the conflict, although their positions appear to be oceans apart: there are major differences over nuclear activity, regional influence, and security demands. The ongoing crisis has already disrupted global stability, affecting energy markets and trade routes, with rising fears of long-term instability if a peaceful resolution is not achieved.

Amid escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, the IDF’s plans to establish a buffer zone deep inside southern Lebanon have intensified fears of prolonged instability. Foreign minister Israel Katz, stating that the aim is to protect northern communities, has proposed military control up to the Litani River and the demolition of border villages even after the war with Hezbollah ends. Lebanese leaders and international voices have condemned the move, warning it risks further displacement and destruction. Since early March, widespread violence has resulted in significant casualties, including civilians, healthcare workers, and journalists, while more than a million people have been displaced. Critical infrastructure, including hospitals, has been severely affected, worsening an already fragile humanitarian situation. The crisis shows how civilians are bearing the heaviest burden as insecurity, loss, and uncertainty continue to shape daily life across affected areas.

Sectarian violence erupted on 28 March in Suqaylabiyah, a predominantly Christian town in Syria, following tensions involving two Muslim young men from the nearby town of Qalaat al-Madiq. Reports indicate that they started to harass Christian women; when Christian men attacked them in response, they went back to their town, returned with dozens of other men, and carried out coordinated attacks on homes, shops, and vehicles, while firing weapons and damaging a shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Some sources alleged the involvement of national security personnel. Government forces were deployed to restore order, preventing further incursions despite continued attempts by surrounding groups. In response, leaders from several Christian traditions condemned the violence and cancelled public Easter celebrations, reflecting deep concern over safety. CSW’s founder president Mervyn Thomas has called on the Syrian authorities to increase their efforts to combat extremism and hate speech, and hold accountable all those involved in this attack.

Iran has rejected claims by Donald Trump that negotiations are under way to end the conflict, with military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaqari accusing Washington of ‘negotiating with itself’ to mask failure. While US officials suggest progress and reports indicate a proposed plan involving limits on Iran’s nuclear and missile programmes, Iranian leaders insist no direct or indirect talks have taken place. Confusion persists as regional actors, including Pakistan and Turkey, reportedly act as intermediaries, passing messages in hopes of de-escalation. Meanwhile, hostilities continue, with Israel and Iran exchanging strikes and civilian casualties reported. The US is also increasing its military presence in the region, highlighting the tension between diplomatic signals and ongoing conflict, and underscoring the fragility of any potential path toward peace.

UK gas prices have surged by around 25% following escalating conflict in the Middle East, raising fresh concerns over energy security and household costs. The spike came after Iranian missile strikes hit a major liquefied natural gas facility in Qatar, causing significant damage and disrupting production. With Britain heavily reliant on imported gas and Europe’s reserves already depleted after a cold winter, markets reacted sharply. Prices for natural gas and oil both rose rapidly, with experts warning this could lead to increased bills for UK households already affected by previous energy crises. Government leaders have described the situation as a pivotal moment, highlighting the risks of dependence on volatile global energy supplies. Calls are growing to accelerate the transition to renewable energy, which could provide greater stability and reduce exposure to international conflicts. Analysts suggest that reducing reliance on gas and expanding domestic renewable sources may offer a more secure and sustainable long-term solution. See

The Bank of England has held interest rates at 3.75% amid growing concerns that conflict in the Middle East will drive up inflation in the UK. The decision follows rising energy prices linked to disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for global oil and gas supplies. Iranian attacks have significantly reduced shipping through the region, contributing to increased costs for fuel, utilities, and goods. The Bank warned that inflation could rise to around 3.5% in the coming months, reversing earlier expectations of a continued decline. While the rate hold was widely anticipated, it means borrowing costs for households remain high, with mortgage rates already increasing. Officials emphasised that resolving the crisis depends on restoring safe passage through key energy routes. The situation highlights the UK’s vulnerability to global shocks and the wider economic impact of international conflict; policymakers have to 'wait and see' as events continue to unfold.

Israel’s assassination of Ali Larijani, a central figure in Iran’s political and security establishment, will be a devastating body blow to the country, probably even more than the loss of the supreme leader Ali Khamenei at the outset of the war. Known for his ability to bridge factions within Iran’s complex system, he played a key role linking military and civilian authorities while maintaining influence with international partners. His loss removes a figure seen as capable of navigating both internal divisions and external pressures. He had supported diplomatic engagement alongside firm internal control, positioning himself as a pragmatic voice amid hardline elements. His absence could strengthen more hardline forces, complicating any path towards stability or ceasefire. News update: on 18 March Iran’s intelligence minister, Esmail Khatib, was killed in an air strike. See

Ursula von der Leyen has reaffirmed the EU’s strong commitment to international law after her remarks on 9 March about a changing global order sparked controversy. She had said that Europe could ‘no longer be a custodian for the old world order’, suggesting that shifting geopolitical realities require new approaches. Some supporters viewed the comment as a realistic assessment of global tensions, while critics feared it might weaken Europe’s defence of international rules. Spain’s prime minister Pedro Sánchez responded that the key challenge is maintaining an international order rather than allowing disorder. Von der Leyen clarified that recognising global changes does not lessen the EU’s principles. She emphasised that the EU remains committed to peace, multilateral cooperation, and the principles of the United Nations Charter. Her remarks come as European leaders are sharply split over the legality of the US-Israeli war against Iran.

Iran’s clerical leaders have moved quickly to appoint a new Supreme Leader after Ali Khamenei was killed in Israeli and American strikes on the opening day of the conflict. His successor is his 56-year-old son, Mojtaba Khamenei. For years he has been influential behind the scenes, often described as a gatekeeper to his father and closely connected to key centres of power. His wife Zahra was reportedly killed in the same Israeli air strike that killed his father. Although he lacks broad public recognition and has never held elected office, reports indicate he has the backing of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the powerful security force which underpins the state. His appointment is likely to reinforce the existing direction of Iran’s leadership during a period of intense regional conflict and internal pressure. Observers note that many Iranians who have called for reform will see little sign of change in this appointment, which might give Donald Trump a strategic advantage in his war of words with Tehran. Breaking news: on 12 March, a message was read out on state television, said to come from the new Supreme Leader, vowing that Iran would fight on. See

Egypt’s tourism sector has rebounded strongly in recent years, reaffirming its importance to the national economy. In 2025 the country welcomed nearly 19 million visitors, a 21% increase from the previous year, while tourism revenues reached €14.17 billion - more than 20% above pre-pandemic levels. This recovery follows the sharp decline in 2020 when travel restrictions caused revenues to fall dramatically. Authorities expect continued growth in 2026, supported by increased air travel, including a significant rise in charter flights, and the development of destinations such as El Alamein, Siwa and the North Coast. The government is investing in infrastructure, with plans for more than 200,000 new hotel rooms and expanded airport capacity. However, due to the new Middle East conflict many Egyptians are at present struggling with rising living costs: higher transport costs are pushing up food prices, leaving both vendors and families facing growing financial strain. See