Situation in the Middle East

This page brings together the Ministry for Foreign Affairs’ press releases, news, speeches and statements concerning the Middle East.

28.7.2026

Media Freedom Coalition Statement on the situation of journalists in the Middle East region in light of the regional escalation

The undersigned members of the Media Freedom Coalition express their deep concern for the safety of journalists and the repercussions for access to information in the Middle East, in light of the regional escalation. The safety of journalists and media workers, and the access to information are under serious threat.

Statements
13.7.2026

Information for Finnish travellers in the Middle East

The security situation in the Middle East remains fragile. It is difficult to assess how long it will continue.

News
10.7.2026

EU Foreign Affairs Council to discuss Russia’s war of aggression, the Middle East and the Black Sea

EU foreign affairs ministers will convene for a meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels on 13 July. State Secretary Pasi Rajala will represent Finland at the meeting.

Press releases
12.6.2026

EU Foreign Affairs Council to discuss Russia’s war of aggression, the Middle East and China

EU foreign affairs ministers will convene for a meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg on 15 June. Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen will represent Finland at the meeting.

Press releases
28.5.2026

Foreign Minister Valtonen to attend Council of the Baltic Sea States meeting in Poland

Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen will attend the foreign ministers’ meeting of the Council of the Baltic Sea States (CBSS) in Sopot, Poland, on 28–29 May.

Press releases
27.5.2026

Foreign Minister Valtonen to participate in informal meeting of EU foreign ministers

The informal meeting of EU Foreign Affairs Ministers (Gymnich) will take place in Limassol, Cyprus, on 27–28 May.

Press releases
8.5.2026

Foreign Minister Valtonen to attend EU foreign ministers’ meeting

EU foreign affairs ministers will convene for a meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels on 11 May.

Press releases