Here’s your MENA Brief for June 14, capturing the top developments shaping infrastructure, geopolitics, trade, and tourism
Iran launches missiles at Israel after nuclear facility strikes
Tensions spiked as Iran fired ballistic missiles at Israel in retaliation for Israeli air raids that killed senior Iranian military leaders and hit nuclear sites. Both nations reported casualties and damage amid calls from the US and UK to pursue dialogue and de-escalation.
UN Palestinian statehood conference postponed
French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that the planned UN conference on a two-state solution in New York has been delayed due to security and logistical concerns. Macron reiterated France’s determination to recognise a Palestinian state “under any circumstances.”
Abu Dhabi to host inaugural Infrastructure Summit
The Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre announced the first Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit (ADIS) for June 17–18, themed “Future Cities: Rethinking Infrastructure for Better Lifestyles.” Over 2,000 attendees, 70+ speakers, and 25 exhibitors will discuss sustainable, human-centric urban development across key sectors like mobility, energy, healthcare, and smart cities.
Saudi Arabia emerges as a global football powerhouse
Middle East expert Dr. Kristian Coates Ulrichsen highlights Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in reshaping world football, backed by Vision 2030 investments and the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2034. In his new book “Kingdom of Football”, he notes the Kingdom’s deep sports heritage and growing influence in multiple sports arenas.
US judge extends detention of pro-Palestinian student leader
Despite a court order for release, Mahmoud Khalil — a prominent pro-Palestinian protest figure — remains in US detention on fresh charges related to alleged inaccuracies in his residency paperwork. His lawyer condemned the move as political retaliation for campus activism.
Pro-Palestinian march to Gaza blocked in Egypt and Libya
Activists trying to march to Gaza to break the Israeli blockade were stopped in both Libya and Egypt. Egyptian authorities confiscated passports and detained dozens, while Tunisia’s “Soumoud” convoy was halted at the Libyan city of Sirte, highlighting the logistical and political hurdles faced by solidarity movements.
Saudi EXIM Bank and Credit Oman sign MoU
Saudi EXIM Bank signed an MoU with Credit Oman during the TXF Global conference in Copenhagen to boost joint projects, support exports, and share expertise. Saudi EXIM has extended $22 billion in credit facilities to strengthen non-oil exports under Vision 2030.
Qatar relaunches Whale Shark Tours to promote ecotourism
Qatar Tourism, in collaboration with Discover Qatar, has reopened its seasonal Whale Shark Tours for 2025. These tours showcase one of the world’s largest whale shark gatherings while promoting marine conservation and sustainable tourism.
