As per reports, the following are the updates on tensions in the Middle East due to Israel-US airstrikes on Iran as of Wednesday ( 20 May):

• US: On Tuesday (19 May), United States Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that it continues to enforce the US blockade targeting Iran, including restrictions on 89 commercial maritime activities involving Iranian ports. Iranian officials have attributed the ongoing diplomatic impasse and continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz to US actions, while reiterating that Tehran may not yield to perceived political pressure from Washington.
• UAE, France: UAE and France signed a new defence cooperation agreement during an official visit by UAE Minister of State for Defence Mubarak bin Fadhel al-Mazrouei on Tuesday (19 May). According to a statement issued by the UAE Ministry of Defence, the agreement reflects the depth of bilateral relations and the shared commitment of both countries to strengthening military and defence cooperation amid the middle east tensions.
• Palestine: The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates on Tuesday (19 May) strongly condemned Israel following the reported interception of aid vessels bound for the Gaza Strip, describing the action as ‘a new crime’ intended to conceal alleged acts of genocide and starvation within the enclave. In an official statement, the ministry characterized the interception as ‘complete piracy’ and asserted that the action constitutes a serious violation of international law.
• Israel: As of Tuesday (19 May), Israeli political and military officials reportedly remain on heightened alert amid ongoing discussions regarding potential military action against Iran. According to reports, senior officials recently convened to assess preparedness measures for a possible strike scenario.
• Qatar: The Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday (19 May), stated that backchannel negotiations between the US and Iran, reportedly mediated by Pakistan, remain ongoing despite continued regional tensions. Additionally, officials stated that the diplomatic process requires additional time before a formal framework can be established to end the regional conflict that began on 28 February.
• As of Tuesday (19 May), maritime logistics company Maersk announced emergency freight rates and a temporary suspension of landside cargo bookings across critical hubs in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and Iraq due to ongoing transit disruptions.