Tensions Between Israel and Iran Soar

Tensions Between Israel and Iran Soar | OilPrice.com

Politics, Geopolitics & Conflict

Israel has shored up its defenses in anticipation of a direct response from Iran following the Israel leveling of the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria. Two Iranian generals were killed in the attack. Israel’s war cabinet has convened, and tension is bursting over an expected Iranian response. In the meantime, needing full U.S. support against Iran, Israel moved to ease the route for humanitarian aid to Gaza via the waterways.

In Turkey, the opposition dealt a severe blow to Erdogan, who has now effectively lost control of key cities. After his presidential victory, Erdogan was hoping to take Istanbul, Ankara, and other key cities, but lost to the opposition following a devastating earthquake and inflation that is soaring at 68.5%.

NATO is moving quickly to avert any catastrophic victory for Russia over Ukraine and the extended threat to Europe that could result if Trump were to gain the presidency. To that end, NATO this week discussed putting forward some $100 billion in consolidated funds for Ukraine by July. (It remains unclear whether the military alliance can actually commit this amount). They also discussed the possibility of assigning collective responsibility to all 32 alliance members for the U.S.-led Ramstein military aid support group, taking some of the onus off the United States. The Ramsetin group coordinates weapons deliveries to Ukraine. The White House has pushed back some on the Ramstein part…