Key Political, Security, and Diplomatic Developments — November 2025
November 2025 marked a period of notable diplomatic realignments, security recalibrations, and symbolic breakthroughs across the Middle East. From shifts in Syria’s international status to evolving defence partnerships and domestic political tensions, the month reflected a region navigating post-conflict transitions alongside persistent instability.
UN Security Council Removes Sanctions on Syrian Leadership
New York, 6 November 2025
The United Nations Security Council formally lifted long-standing sanctions on Syrian President Ahmad al-Shara and Interior Minister Anas Khattab following the adoption of a resolution on 6 November. The measures, imposed during the height of the Syrian conflict, had targeted individuals linked to extremist organisations, including al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.
President al-Shara, previously known under the alias Abu Muhammad al-Julani, was once the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which was designated a terrorist organisation in 2014. He had been subject to asset freezes, international travel restrictions, and a United States bounty of USD 10 million.
Following the vote, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz described the resolution as a significant political signal, indicating Syria’s entry into a new phase of engagement with international counterterrorism frameworks. He framed the decision as recognition of steps taken by Damascus to improve governance, security oversight, and human rights protections.
The resolution passed with 14 votes in favour, while China abstained, choosing not to formally support or oppose the measure. Observers view the decision as a milestone in Syria’s gradual reintegration into the international system, potentially enabling expanded access to reconstruction assistance, institutional reform support, and technical cooperation.
Syria Becomes Member of the Global Coalition Against ISIS
Damascus, 10 November 2025
On 10 November, Syria officially joined the Global Coalition against the Islamic State, becoming its 90th member. The announcement was made by Information Minister Hamza al-Mustafa during President Ahmad al-Shara’s official visit to the United States.
Syria’s accession represents a notable shift in its foreign and security policy orientation following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Given the country’s strategic location and porous borders with Iraq, Turkey, Jordan, and Lebanon, its participation is viewed as operationally and symbolically significant for regional counterterrorism efforts.
Despite this diplomatic breakthrough, security conditions remain volatile. Since assuming office, the transitional authorities have confronted renewed extremist activity aimed at destabilising state institutions. In recent weeks, security forces arrested 70 individuals on terrorism-related charges and thwarted a plot to assassinate President al-Shara.
These developments highlight both the scale of the ongoing threat and the urgency of integrating Syria into coordinated international counterterrorism mechanism.
U.S.–Saudi Defence Ties Strengthened Through MNNA Status
Washington, D.C., 19 November 2025
The United States formally designated Saudi Arabia as a Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) on 19 November, signalling a substantial deepening of bilateral defence and security cooperation.
While MNNA status does not entail mutual defence obligations, it facilitates expanded military collaboration, enhanced access to advanced defence technologies, and opportunities for joint research and development.
The announcement was made by President Donald J. Trump during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to the White House. U.S. officials emphasised that the designation would streamline cooperation with American defence firms while maintaining cost-sharing arrangements aligned with U.S. strategic and economic priorities.
Saudi Arabia simultaneously committed to purchasing 300 U.S.-manufactured tanks and received preliminary approval to pursue the acquisition of F-35 fighter aircraft, with interest expressed in up to 48 units. Such a transfer would represent an unprecedented shift in regional airpower dynamics.
The move has raised concerns in Israel, where officials cite long-standing U.S. commitments to maintaining Israel’s Qualitative Military Edge (QME), enshrined in U.S. legislation passed in 2008 and reinforced in 2013. Analysts warn that expanded Saudi access to advanced platforms could significantly alter the regional military balance.
Saudi Arabia Unveils First Industrial Quantum Computer
Dhahran, 24 November 2025
Saudi Aramco, in collaboration with French technology firm Pasqal, launched the Middle East’s first operational industrial quantum computer on 24 November. The 200-qubit neutral-atom system, installed at Aramco’s data centre in Dhahran, is intended to enhance complex simulations related to energy systems, materials science, and industrial optimisation.
According to Aramco, the technology will support research into catalyst development, high-temperature materials, and next-generation energy applications, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s broader innovation and diversification agenda.
Experts caution, however, that quantum computing remains at an early stage of industrial viability. While neutral-atom platforms show promise in scalability, practical advantages over classical high-performance computing are not yet consistently proven. High operational costs, limited specialised expertise, and uncertain near-term applications suggest the initiative should be viewed primarily as a long-term capacity-building investment.
Pope Leo XIV Makes First Foreign Visit to Turkey
Ankara–Istanbul–İznik, 27–30 November 2025
Pope Leo XIV undertook his first foreign visit from 27 to 30 November, travelling to Turkey to complete engagements initially planned by his predecessor, Pope Francis, who passed away in April 2025.
The visit began at Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, followed by talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Discussions focused on the war in Ukraine, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and broader issues of conflict resolution and regional stability.
On 28 November, the Pope visited the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Istanbul before travelling to İznik, where he joined Patriarch Bartholomew I in an ecumenical service marking the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea.
The itinerary also included visits to the Blue Mosque and Turkey’s Directorate of Religious Affairs (Diyanet), where the Pope met with Chief Rabbi David Savı. Collectively, the engagements underscored Leo XIV’s emphasis on interreligious dialogue as a defining element of his pontificate.
Israeli Protests Erupt Over Potential Netanyahu Pardon
Tel Aviv, 30 November 2025
Hundreds of protesters gathered outside the residence of Israeli President Isaac Herzog to oppose the possibility of a presidential pardon for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose legal troubles have dominated Israeli politics for years.
Netanyahu is facing three criminal cases involving allegations of corruption, fraud, and breach of public trust. His wife, Sara Netanyahu, is a co-defendant in one case, with prosecutors alleging the acceptance of luxury gifts valued at over USD 260,000 in exchange for political favours.
While Netanyahu denies all charges, critics argue that granting clemency would undermine democratic norms and the rule of law. Opposition leader Yair Golan reiterated calls for Netanyahu’s resignation, asserting that “only the guilty ask for a pardon.”
The protests reflect deep political polarisation and ongoing concerns over institutional integrity, governance standards, and judicial independence in Israel.
Conclusion
The events of November 2025 illustrate a Middle East undergoing cautious transformation amid persistent volatility. Diplomatic reintegration, evolving security partnerships, technological ambition, and domestic political contestation continue to shape the region’s trajectory, highlighting both opportunities for stabilization and enduring structural risks.
