Middle east war 2025.05.12 | SITUATION UPDATE

1. Introduction / Background 

The conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to be a major point of concern. Recent reports indicate ongoing Israeli bombardments in Gaza and a dire humanitarian crisis. There are talks of a potential ceasefire and aid delivery, with Hamas stating its intention to release a US-Israeli captive.

The situation in Yemen remains tense, with the US conducting further attacks against Houthi targets. Also, the discussions between Iran and the US regarding Iran's nuclear program are ongoing.

2. Key Highlights - Israel Hamas War

• Killed - 52,810
• Injured - 119,473
• Home Destroyed

3. Governments’ Response

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee on Sunday that he seeks to draft 10,500 haredim to the IDF in the next two years.

Representing Israeli government, Israeli Foreign Minister Mr. Gideon Saar said on 11.05.2025 that Israel fully endorses U.S. President Mr. Donald Trump's plan for Gaza aid.

4. Military Developments

Violence remains high in Gaza, with continued Israeli airstrikes.

The United States military has conducted further airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen.

A fourth round of talks between the US and Iran over Tehran's nuclear programme have taken place in Oman, with both sides agreeing to meet again.

The Israeli military issued an evacuation warning for three ports in Yemen on 11.05.2025 night after vowing to “defend itself by itself” following a ceasefire deal between the US and the Houthis that excluded Israel.

5. Militants’ Activity

No reported militant activities up to now.

6. Impact On the Trade and Travel

Ongoing conflicts and tensions in the Middle East continue to pose a risk to global supply chains. Key maritime routes, such as the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, are vulnerable.

7. International Response

International involvement could be seen, to initiate a ceasefire. Here Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander will soon be released in Gaza, a senior Hamas official told Reuters on Sunday, a move key Arab mediators Qatar and Egypt described as an encouraging step towards a return to ceasefire talks in the war-torn enclave.

Jordanian Prime Minister Mr. Jaafar Hassan reiterated here on 11.05.2025 that preventing the displacement of Palestinians from their land remains a top national priority for the Kingdom.

8. Comment.

Particularly, Hamas has announced it will release Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old US-Israeli soldier held captive since the October 2023 attack that triggered the war. This release is part of direct talks between Hamas and the United States aimed at achieving a ceasefire and reopening humanitarian aid corridors. The US and mediators like Egypt and Qatar have welcomed this as a "gesture of goodwill" and a hopeful step toward ending the conflict.

Despite these diplomatic developments, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has maintained an ultimatum to Hamas, warning that military operations in Gaza will continue if ceasefire terms-including the release of hostages-are not met.