Middle East Overview: May 2026
April was the deadliest month in Gaza this year, conflict in Iraq took on its own trajectory, and violence continued in southern Lebanon despite the ceasefire.
All analysis on Israel
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Nasser Khdour on Israel’s escalation in Gaza amid Hamas’ refusal to disarm
ACLED’s Middle East Assistant Research Manager Nasser Khdour comments on new developments in the Gaza Strip as Israel intensifies attacks
Bassel Doueik on systematic property destruction in southern Lebanon
ACLED’s Lebanon and Jordan Researcher Bassel Doueik comments on Israel’s use of Gaza-style tactics in Lebanon.
60 days of the Iran war — 6 conflicts you didn’t see
While global attention was fixed on Iran, violence, unrest, and instability continued to escalate elsewhere — largely out of view.
Who are the Israel-backed armed groups fighting Hamas in Gaza?
The Board of Peace wants Hamas to disarm. But the group's reluctance to do so stems from more than just Israel's repeated ceasefire violations.
Is civil unrest poised to escalate in Lebanon?
Even as the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire begins, potential Israel-Lebanon peace talks could exacerbate domestic tensions.
United behind the ceasefire even as divisions loom: Gulf countries navigate US-Iran talks
Despite finding renewed unity in supporting the ceasefire, countries in the region are divided in their positions toward Iran
Bassel Doueik on escalation of Israeli attacks over Lebanon after “Black Wednesday”
ACLED’s Lebanon and Jordan Researcher Bassel Doueik comments on Israel’s military shift towards Lebanon.
Nasser Khdour on massive Israeli attacks over Lebanon despite ceasefire
ACLED’s Middle East Assistant Research Manager Nasser Khdour comments on Israel’s targeting of Lebanon after US and Iran agree to halt fighting.
Clionadh Raleigh on ceasefire deal after record number of strikes in Iran
ACLED’s Prof. Clionadh Raleigh comments on the ceasefire as strike activity in Iran reaches a new high