Middle East

The war and humanitarian crisis in Gaza directly impacts many Minnesotans. And while MPR News does not have journalists stationed in the region, we do have a responsibility to our audiences to report on how this ongoing conflict affects people here. Our goal is to provide MPR News audiences with a variety of perspectives, context and factual information. We are committed to using language that is as precise as possible.

As you will see here, the majority of the coverage on our air and our website is provided by our national and international news partners, NPR and the BBC. The language and terminology used to describe the conflict are changing. If you have questions or concerns about our coverage please reach out to us.

Lebanon digs for survivors after deadliest day of renewed war between Israel and Hezbollah
Lebanon reels from its deadliest day in over five weeks of war between Israel and Hezbollah. Rescue workers searched for survivors Wednesday after widespread Israeli strikes killed at least 203 people, according to Lebanon’s health ministry.
Trump warns strikes will resume if Iran doesn’t agree to his peace terms
President Trump said that any peace deal would not allow nuclear enrichment in Iran, and would need to keep the Strait of Hormuz open, as conflicting messages surface over the terms of the ceasefire.
As part of the agreement, set to take effect immediately, Trump said the U.S. and Israel would suspend bombing Iran for two weeks, subject to Iran following through on its commitment to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for safe passage during the ceasefire period.
As Trump threatens Iran's infrastructure, a Tehran couple wonders how to prepare
A couple living in Iran's capital have grown used to the sound of daily airstrikes five weeks into the war. They've taped up their windows and packed a bag with essentials in case they need to leave quickly. But they're uncertain of how to prepare for the loss of electricity or major bridges, if President Donald Trump follows through on recent threats.
Gunmen attack building housing Israeli Consulate in Istanbul
Turkish officials say that gunmen attacked a building housing the Israeli Consulate in Istanbul, sparking a gunfight that left one assailant dead and two police officers wounded.
As Trump’s deadline approaches, Iranian leaders respond in defiance
Hours away from President Trump’s 8 p.m. EST Tuesday deadline for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz, attacks continued in the Persian Gulf with no agreement in sight. Trump has threatened to bomb Iranian bridges and power plants if a deal is not reached.