This live blog follows the latest developments across the Middle East crisis, including regional diplomacy, maritime security, ceasefire negotiations, and economic fallout.

Catch up on Sunday’s top developments here:


  • ‘Very Happy’: Trump welcomes Makkah Joint Defence Agreement
  • Hamas says it asked Board of Peace to 'compel' Israel to accept Gaza plan
  • Muslim countries condemn Israel's rejection of Trump's Gaza plan
  • Trump envoy Kushner discusses Gaza with Egypt's Sisi: Presidency
  • Iranian armed forces say they will continue resistance against Israel


Sunday's developments at a glance

Published: Aug 17, 2026 | 01:14 GMT | by Web Desk


Diplomatic efforts to revive a US-backed Gaza peace plan intensified on Sunday as Hamas held talks with Egyptian mediators and prepared for a meeting with US envoy Jared Kushner, while Israel continued to reject key elements of the proposed roadmap.

Hamas said it had urged the US-backed Board of Peace and mediating countries to compel Israel to implement its ceasefire obligations and approve the second phase of the Gaza plan.

Pakistan and seven Muslim countries meanwhile condemned Israel's rejection of the roadmap and Palestinian statehood, saying its position undermined efforts for a just and lasting peace.

US President Donald Trump welcomed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement signed by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, calling it a “big, bold, and important first step.” The pact treats an armed attack on any one of the three countries as an attack on all.

Pope Leo XIV renewed his call for an end to violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and urged the international community to advance a two-state solution.

Meanwhile, tensions persisted in Lebanon and along Saudi Arabia's border with Yemen, while Palestinian sources reported Israeli restrictions and settler attacks in the West Bank and the detention of three Palestinian aid truck drivers near Gaza's Karm Abu Salem crossing.



For earlier developments, read our Aug 16 live blog here.