This article looks more closely as to how recent events are reshaping the Middle East's geography. Some of the items being looked at is how Israel is weakening Iran, which supported Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Hezbollah, while Russia is involved in its war with Ukraine.

Countries are racing to develop "sovereign AI" systems, focusing on independent AI capabilities tailored to their cultural, economic, and security needs. From Denmark's AI supercomputer to India's USD1.2 billion investment, nations aim to harness their data and resources for strategic advantage. This push promises benefits like cultural preservation and economic growth but poses challenges in cost, energy demands, and global inequality. As AI sovereignty grows, balancing national ambitions with international collaboration will be key to ensuring equitable progress in the AI-driven world.

Any change in the Middle East does not start in Lebanon and the war there, nor in Gaza and the war there, but rather ends in Gaza and Lebanon. This change does not start with Netanyahu's war to "strike the power of Hezbollah", after striking the power of Hamas in Gaza, but rather with the change in Iran, Israel, and Turkey.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues to push for the prolongation of the war in Gaza, despite efforts for a ceasefire. He seems to be waiting for Donald Trump’s presidency before shifting his stance on talks with Hamas. While Netanyahu is open to a temporary truce for hostages, he remains unwilling to make significant concessions, such as withdrawing Israeli forces from Gaza. The situation has led to ongoing suffering for civilians, with international actors like the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar working to mediate a ceasefire. However, the political complexity of the conflict delays resolution.

Egypt has proposed a new ceasefire plan to address the ongoing crisis in Gaza, aiming for a five-day truce to gather information on prisoners, followed by a 60-day ceasefire for prisoner exchanges and humanitarian aid. The plan includes reopening the Rafah Crossing under international supervision, deploying an international security mission, and supporting Gaza's reconstruction. The proposal, supported by the U.S., Qatar, and Turkey, seeks to balance Israel’s security needs with humanitarian relief. While both Israel and Hamas have shown conditional flexibility, challenges remain, including demands for border security and a full Israeli withdrawal. If successful, the plan could offer a path to stability in Gaza.

Intensified attacks in Gaza and Lebanon have left Gaza’s healthcare system in crisis, with the UN accusing Israel of targeting medical facilities and personnel—actions described as potential crimes against humanity. Over 400,000 residents in northern Gaza face hunger due to blocked aid, while food shortages are worsening across the region. The UN urges immediate humanitarian access and accountability for ongoing violations, stressing that peace cannot be achieved without justice and equal dignity for all. The situation remains critical as calls for a ceasefire grow louder amid escalating violence.