Over 1 million displaced Palestinian civilians sheltering in Rafah face an anxious wait amid escalating tensions with Israel. Egypt has intensified security measures at the Rafah border, including the installation of barbed wire on border fences to deter migration. Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry affirmed the rejection of any initiative that could provoke a potential Israeli military operation in Rafah or lead to the migration of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip. The move reflects heightened concerns about the security situation in the region and efforts to prevent further displacement of civilians.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi issued a stern warning to the UK, Germany, and France, accusing them of making a “new strategic mistake” regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. In a social media post, Arakchi said, “Iran will give a tough and determined response to the violation of its rights,” criticizing the European trio for backing a resolution against Iran at the IAEA Board of Governors.
Arakchi condemned the move as baseless, recalling past disputes in 2005 which led to the expansion of Iran’s uranium enrichment. “Have these three really not learned any lessons in the last twenty years?” he said.
Meanwhile, the IAEA reported on May 31 that Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile had grown from 274.8 kg in February to 408.6 kg by May 17. In response, the UK, Germany, and France are reportedly preparing to refer Iran’s file to the UN Security Council, which could activate the “snapback” mechanism and reimpose UN sanctions.
TR