Trending Middle East
Trending Middle East delivers top news stories, field reports, and in-depth insights from the Middle East and beyond, produced by The National News.
Episodes
Israel begins coalition talks, Binance hit by $6.3bn breach and Abu Dhabi jails Sudan arms traffickers
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Israeli politicians begin coalition talks after final election counts leave Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his main rival, Gadi Eisenkot, without a parliamentary majority. Arab parties win a record 19 seats and could play a decisive role in forming the next government.
Cryptocurrency prices fall sharply after Binance faces a security breach affect
Arab parties challenge Netanyahu and Sharjah closes beaches over oil spill
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Israel’s Arab parties seek to remove Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after an inconclusive election increased their representation in parliament. Neither major bloc has secured a majority.
Oil prices decline as traders assess renewed diplomatic efforts aimed at averting further US military action against Iran, with Brent crude trading at about $114 a b
Netanyahu claims victory, Jordan and Syria agree on security committee and Dubai approves Dh2bn urban plan
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claims victory in the country's election, although neither his bloc nor the opposition has secured a parliamentary majority. About 600,000 absentee ballots are still to be counted.
Meanwhile, Jordan and Syria agree to form a joint security committee to examine Jordanian air strikes in southern Syria that killed a
Israel votes in crucial election, Jordan retaliates in Syria and Harry Kane wins Ballon d'Or
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Israel goes to the polls in a keenly contested election that will determine whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains in power. Former general Gadi Eisenkot is his strongest challenger, with Arab voter turnout expected to play an important role in the result.
Jordan carries out strikes on southern Syria in retaliation for a deadly church attack i
Saudi coalition strikes Sanaa, Jordan arrests church attack suspects and iPhone Duo buyers complain
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the Saudi-led coalition carries out strikes on Yemen’s capital Sanaa, saying it destroyed Houthi ballistic missile launch sites used to attack Riyadh.
Meanwhile, Jordanian security forces arrest three suspects after an attack on a church in Karak governorate that killed nine people and injured 40.
In the UAE, officials reject Iran’s criticism of Minister
UAE tackles oil spill, Yemen warns of Houthi child recruitment and Oman strengthens UK investment ties
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, UAE authorities work to contain an oil spill from a supertanker in the Arabian Gulf after reports of a strong fuel smell. Beaches in Umm Al Quwain have been closed temporarily as clean-up operations continue.
Yemen’s internationally recognised government warns citizens against attending Houthi-organised gatherings, accusing the group of recruiting childr
US pulls staff from Saudi Arabia, UAE's Nusseibeh in UN race, and Middle East oil exports recover
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, the US has ordered non-essential diplomatic staff and their families to leave Saudi Arabia amid escalating Houthi attacks on the kingdom. The move follows a strike on Dammam airport late on Wednesday that killed one person and injured eight.
UAE Minister of State Lana Nusseibeh has entered the race to become the next UN secretary general. Her candidacy c
UK jets in Saudi Arabia, prices double in Taiz and UAE-France defence deals
Today on Trending Middle East, the UK is sending Typhoon fighter jets to Saudi Arabia to help defend its cities and vital infrastructure against Houthi attacks. The aircraft will be used to intercept aerial threats and will not carry out strikes against the Houthis in Yemen.
Meanwhile, food and fuel prices have more than doubled in Yemen’s besieged city of Taiz, the UN has warned, as fighting betw
Macron talks energy crisis during UAE visit, WFP to cut Gaza food aid and Dubai tests autonomous wheelchairs
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, President Sheikh Mohamed meets French President Emmanuel Macron in Abu Dhabi for talks on regional security, energy supplies and the impact of the Iran war. Macron is visiting Bahrain and Qatar today.
Meanwhile, the UN’s World Food Programme announces it will cut food assistance to about half a million people in Gaza because of a funding shortage.
Lebano
UAE President meets Saudi defence minister, flydubai pilot recounts attack and Macron begins Gulf visit
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed meets Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman to discuss regional security and stability amid continuing Houthi attacks on the kingdom.
Flydubai captain Smit Machchhar speaks exclusively to The National about how he thwarted a mid-air cockpit attack by his co-pilot, who struck him with an axe and sent the aircraft int
Houthis strike Aden presidential palace, Iraq approves cabinet and Sharjah dismantles cyber crime network
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the Saudi-led coalition says it intercepted and destroyed a drone launched towards Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province. Meanwhile, the death toll from a Houthi attack on Yemen’s presidential palace in Aden rises to five, with 16 injured.
US President Donald Trump, meanwhile, declines to rule out using the “mother of all bombs” against Iran after the November
War cuts off 800,000 in Taiz, diesel shortages to extend into 2027 and Gaza committee signs development deal
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, about 800,000 people in Yemen’s city of Taiz are largely cut off from food, fuel and medical supplies as fighting between the government troops and the Houthi rebels intensifies.
As the Iran conflict drags on, the global diesel shortage is expected to continue well into 2027, the International Energy Agency has warned.
In Lebanon, private suppliers now p
Aramco building struck, missing sailors' families grieve and Dubai unveils underground transport plans
Today on Trending Middle East, a building of Saudi Arabia's state oil company Aramco is attacked in Dharan, as the Houthi rebels in Yemen escalate their missile campaign against the kingdom. The Energy Ministry says the strike cause a fire but there were no casualties.
Families of two Indian sailors who have been missing since a drone hit an oil tanker off Oman's coast tell The National they are "
Riyadh extends airport closure, UK imposes sanctions on Iranians and IMF cuts Gulf growth forecasts
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Yemen’s Houthi rebels launch further attacks against Saudi Arabia as authorities extend the closure of Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport until October 17. The attacks have disrupted flights across the region, with Etihad Airways cancelling services between Abu Dhabi and Riyadh until October 19.
The UK imposes sanctions on two Iranian citizens ac
Riyadh airport attacked again and Trump announces Ukraine-Russia 'energy ceasefire'
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, one person is killed and 11 injured in another attack on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport – a day after 13 were killed and more than 300 injured in a strike claimed by the Houthi rebels. The airport is to remain closed for another 24 hours as Saudi Arabia responds to further threats.
US President Donald Trump announces an immediate ceasefire on
Saudi Arabia to 'punish' Houthis, Trump rules out Iran attack and Musk's Boring Company signs Abu Dhabi deal
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen vows to “punish” the Houthi rebels after attacks on airports in the kingdom killed three people and injured 36. The UAE has condemned the strikes and emphasised its full solidarity with Saudi Arabia.
Syria denies reports that Riyadh asked Damascus to send troops to support the kingdom against the Houthis.
Meanwhile, Presi
Riyadh flights pause after Houthi attacks, US claims Hormuz is open and UAE calls for rain prayers
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, flights from Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport were disrupted this morning after the Houthis claimed a ballistic missile strike there. It comes after Saudi authorities confirmed that three people were killed in earlier attacks on Riyadh and Abha airports.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says Iran has lost control of the Strait of Hormuz, claim
Houthis claim attacks, Qatar and Turkey in Olympics bid race, and UAE brand to export camel milk abroad
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, the Houthis have claimed missile and drone attacks on airports and military sites in Saudi Arabia and Yemen this morning. The Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted ballistic missiles near Riyadh and Khamis Mushait, but authorities have not confirmed the claims about the airports.
Syrian President Ahmad Al Shara has met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin S
Yemeni forces secure Bab Al Mandeb, UAE-Jordan launch $2.3bn railway and Eagle Hills signs Syria projects
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Yemeni government forces secure control of the Bab Al Mandeb strait and the strategic port city of Mokha as their offensive against the Houthis expands.
The Saudi-led coalition is providing air support, while Yemeni forces have also begun what they call a “strategic offensive” on Sanaa.
Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed and Jordan’s King A
Yemen begins offensive against Houthis, Egypt seeks Nile dam solution and UAE launches commercial satellite
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Yemen’s internationally recognised government announces the start of military operations to retake territory held by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels, as fighting intensifies around Taiz.
Egypt says it remains committed to a diplomatic and political solution to its dispute with Ethiopia over its Nile dam, despite a new escalation in tensions between the cou
Third US carrier heads to Middle East, UAE investigates flydubai incident, and Dubai sets AI rules for schools
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US is sending a third aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East as President Donald Trump weighs further military action against Iran. The USS Theodore Roosevelt and its strike group are heading to the region, where two other US aircraft carriers are already deployed.
The UAE Attorney General has ordered an investigation into the mid-flight al
Flydubai pilot praised for averting disaster, Iraq's controversial PMF law, and UAE telecom paves way for 6G
Today on Trending Middle East, Indian flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar has been hailed as a hero for helping avert a potential disaster during a security incident on a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
In Iraq, the government has approved a controversial bill that could further establish the Popular Mobilisation Forces as a permanent national security institution. It comes as US forces formally have for
US withdraws troops from Iraq, UAE condemns Al Aqsa breach and Morocco appoints first female PM
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, the US is withdrawing its last troops from Iraq, officially ending its anti-ISIS mission, Operation Inherent Resolve, after 12 years. Baghdad now plans to shift towards bilateral security co-operation with Washington.
The UAE strongly condemns the storming of Al Aqsa Mosque compound by Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, accompanied by h
UK releases terror suspects on bail, UAE calls for diplomacy at UN and President takes Etihad train to Dubai
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, five people arrested on suspicion of a terrorism plot near the UK's Fairford airbase are released on bail, after experts find no traces of explosives. Authorities say the suspects remain under investigation, while Iran denies any involvement.
Israel condemns the Netherlands' ban on imports of goods from Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territo
US-Iran talks set for this week, five held near UK's Fairford airbase and Al Dhaid to join Etihad Rail network
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump expects American negotiators to hold further talks with Iran this week, with regional sources saying another round of indirect dialogue could take place as early as Monday.
British police arrest five men near RAF Fairford after explosives are discovered, with a possible Iranian link among the lines of inquiry.
Meanwhile, schools
Iran hardens Hormuz position, Trump hosts Xi, and celebrities detained at pro-Palestine protest
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Iran hardens its position on the Strait of Hormuz, insisting Washington must meet its conditions before formal negotiations can resume. Diplomacy at the UN General Assembly has yet to produce a breakthrough, while about 80 countries have backed a call for the urgent reopening of the waterway.
Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey arrange an urgent meeting of
Iran proposes ceasefire road map, $2.45 billion pledged for Gaza, and Syria tourism doubles
Today on Trending Middle East, Iran has presented the US with a proposed road map to end the war. Sources told The National that it includes a region-wide ceasefire of up to 60 days, the gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to the US blockade of Iran.
The US-backed Board of Peace has proposed a six-month, $2.45 billion plan to begin rebuilding Gaza and restoring basic services.
The
US-Iran talks resume, Syrian President considers election and digital dirham symbol adopted
Today on Trending Middle East, both Iran and the US have confirmed they held talks through mediators during the UN General Assembly. This marks the first known negotiation between both sides since an interim agreement broke down in July.
Also on the sidelines of the event, Syrian President Ahmad Al Shara told The National he may run in a future election if he is needed, but that he was focused on
World leaders gather at UNGA, UK backs Saudi defence, and UN ready for Sudan chemical weapons probe
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, world leaders are arriving in New York for the UN General Assembly, with some of the planet's most pressing issues set to dominate discussions. G7 foreign ministers call on Iran to end its support for the Houthis, while Britain prepares to provide Saudi Arabia with defensive air-to-air refuelling amid Houthi attacks.
Major US television networks suspend
Trump plans high-level Arab talks at UNGA, Egypt seeks end to Iran war, and Dubai cuts road journey times
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump will meet Gulf and other Arab officials in New York during UN General Assembly Week, with Iran, its proxies and the future of the US-Iran conflict expected to be key issues.
Dr Anwar Gargash, adviser to President Sheikh Mohamed, also calls for a “new mindset” in relations with Iran, saying diplomacy is the way forward.
Egyptian
Iran to attend UNGA, Houthis assure US over American shipping, and UAE arrests Swedish fugitive
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, an Iranian delegation will be allowed to attend the UN General Assembly in New York next week, while Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has been denied entry to the US. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is expected to attend, while Mr Abbas will be allowed to address the gathering by video.
The Houthi rebels have been communicating indirectly with US
Trump's postwar plans, UAE raises interest rates and Houthi weapons experiments
In this episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump is expected to meet Gulf leaders in New York next week during the UN General Assembly to discuss a postwar strategy for Iran, Axios has reported.
The UAE Central Bank has raised interest rates after the US Federal Reserve increased its rates by 25 basis points in response to geopolitical developments. The move is intended to help c
Houthis condemned for Makkah attack, UAE and Syria hold talks and ransomware activity rises across region
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, Saudi Arabia has warned that the security of Makkah is a “red line” after the kingdom's air defences destroyed a Houthi drone south of the holy city.
The Organisation of Islamic Co-operation condemned the attack, saying it breached the sanctity of Islamic holy sites and threatened civilians.
In Abu Dhabi, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed and Syrian President
Saudi-Houthi attacks intensify, TotalEnergies seeks Iraq-Syria pipeline stake and Widow’s Bay wins 14 Emmys
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, fighting between Saudi Arabia and the Houthi rebels intensifies, with strikes reported in the kingdom and Yemen.
Saudi authorities on Tuesday morning issued shelter warnings across several cities, a day after 13 people were injured in Houthi attacks on civilian areas. The Houthis said Saudi warplanes carried out 54 strikes across Yemen.
US President Dona
Iran talks in Oman postponed, Houthis suffer losses in Yemen and oil price nears $108
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, a meeting between Iran and Gulf states in Oman is postponed, after the sultanate said the appropriate conditions were not in place. Tehran and Muscat jointly agreed to reschedule the talks, which had been set to take place in Salalah.
Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels suffer heavy losses in clashes with government forces in Taiz, after making major gains
UAE-Germany investment deepens, AI used in Houthi weapons projects, and Brics summit to start
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the UAE announces plans to invest 40 billion euros in Germany across sectors including industry, advanced technology, artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure and energy. The announcement comes as President Sheikh Mohamed meets German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin.
Israel says it has blown up Hezbollah tunnels under Ali Al Taher ridge, compl
Sheikh Mohamed meets German President, Houthis seize Mocha, US-Iran tanker conflict escalates
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, President Sheikh Mohamed begins a state visit to Germany aimed at strengthening ties, with the two countries expected to sign agreements on artificial intelligence, energy and investment.
Iran-backed Houthi militants seize the strategic Yemeni port city of Mocha after days of fighting with pro-government forces, as the group also escalates attacks on Sau
US-Iran tanker conflict escalates and new arrangement for Israel-Lebanon talks
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the tanker conflict around the Strait of Hormuz intensifies as the US and Iran trade attacks on oil vessels. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps says it struck two US vessels, eight oil tankers and 10 other ships, while also warning tanker crews in Bahrain and Kuwait to leave their vessels. US Central Command also said American forces destroyed five
Saudi Arabia hit by Houthi attacks, UAE flights disrupted, and Dubai property market faces adjustment
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, attacks by Houthi rebels targeting Saudi Arabia have wounded 73 civilians, including women and children. The Saudi Energy Ministry said several energy sites in the south were struck, causing injuries and fires, and temporarily halting some operations.
Qatar says the Strait of Hormuz will remain vital to international trade despite efforts to develop alte
Iran plans new Hormuz zone, deadly Israeli strikes on Lebanon, and Sudan chemical weapons dossier
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Iran says it will establish a restricted zone around the Strait of Hormuz, as Tehran and Oman prepare to announce a new international shipping corridor. Commercial shipping through the waterway has fallen to its lowest level since May after the latest US and Iranian strikes on tankers.
Recent evidence details an alleged secret chemical weapons programme
Israel to release detained Lebanese, EU backs economic pressure on Iran and Syria destroys chemical weapons
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, Israel is to release five civilians detained in occupied areas of southern Lebanon, as part of a renewed diplomatic push between the two countries. But it comes as the Israeli military abducts three other Lebanese.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has welcomed a move by the EU to join Washington's campaign to increase economic pressure on Iran. He cal
Iran attacks Kuwait, Israel advances further into Lebanon and UAE announces AI curriculum
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, Kuwait says its air defences are repelling what its military called a “heinous Iranian aggression”, involving hostile missile and drone attacks. It comes as Tehran escalates its attacks on other countries across the region.
An investigation by The National has found that Israel’s army is gradually expanding its self-established security zone in southern
US-Iran war escalates again, Syria explosion kills five and Jordanian toddler arrives in Dubai for treatment
Today on Trending Middle East, the US and Iran have traded another round of strikes, raising fears that a weeks-long lull in the war has come to an end. Several people were killed in US strikes on southern areas in Iran, while Jordan and Kuwait intercepted Iranian attacks early on Wednesday.
In the Idlib province of Syria, five people were killed after munitions exploded while being unloaded at a
Trump plans to hit back against Iran, Algeria seeks wildfire death penalty and UAE residents face scam alert
In today's episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump vows to retaliate after Iran launches missiles at American military bases in Jordan.
Meanwhile, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urges G20 finance ministers to join Washington’s campaign to cut off Iran’s financial lifelines. The EU backs the move, while the UAE has already severed trade and financial ties with Iran.
In Iraq,
Jordan intercepts Iranian missiles, 'co-ordinated' settler attacks in West Bank, and Iraqi officials sentenced
Today on Trending Middle East, Jordan has intercepted eight Iranian missiles following a US strike on Iranian forces near the Strait of Hormuz. The exchange marks the first direct fighting between the two countries in more than a month.
In the occupied West Bank, residents told The National that a pattern of settler violence and land seizures point to a co-ordinated campaign. It comes as Israeli P
Rifts widen in Iran, Houthis expand smuggling network to Africa and the UAE pledges Nepal flood aid
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has been accused by a prominent ultraconservative figure of going soft over his support for negotiations with the US. The public rift highlights growing divisions in Iran over how to approach the next phase of the war.
The US military says it has cleared sea mines laid by Tehran in the Strait of Hormuz a
Qatar PM to visit Tehran, US signals possible Hezbollah talks and UAE-Lebanon investment ties grow
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman heads to Tehran to push for de-escalation between Iran and the US and renewed dialogue, with talks also focusing on restoring navigation through the Strait of Hormuz to the situation before February 28.
We also examine comments from the US ambassador to Lebanon that negotiations with Hezbollah are po
Iran suffers from fuel shortages, Syrian Kurdish force dissolves and Dubai airport traffic expected to recover
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Iran struggles with fuel shortages and long queues at petrol stations as motorists rush to fill their tanks following new US sanctions.
We also look at the dissolution of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces as its fighters are integrated into Syria’s state institutions.
Meanwhile, Omani Foreign Minister Badr Al Busaidi is hopeful arrangements to resto
US expects more countries to cut Iran trade, Syria clears major economic hurdle and Parkin expands regionally
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US has announced sweeping new sanctions against Iran, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said he expects other countries to take similar action as Washington steps up its campaign to economically isolate Tehran.
We also look at the US decision to remove Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, clearing a major obstacle to Damascus's econ
US prepares ‘economic D-Day’ for Iran, Syria-Israel talks resume and Emirates airline returns to Kuwait
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says Washington is preparing an “economic D-Day” against Iran, aiming at the country's oil exports, financial transactions, aviation, shipping and banking. In Iran, citizens fear further isolation and hardship as inflation exceeds 80 per cent and the rial continues to weaken.
We also examine high-level talks between Sy
Iran war enters a new phase, Israel and Turkey clash over Syria, and UAE schools prepare to reopen
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US says economic pressure on Iran could prevent a return to large-scale fighting, with Vice President JD Vance describing the war as entering a “new phase” and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent promising further measures on Monday.
We also examine escalating tensions between Israel and Turkey over their military presence in Syria, after Israel accuses
Trump escalates pressure on Iran, Israel opens Hind Rajab investigation, and Abu Dhabi power demand rises
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump announces what he calls the “most crushing economic operation ever taken” against any country after Iran failed to reach a deal with Washington. He also threatens economic consequences for countries that support Tehran, while saying alternatives to the Strait of Hormuz could reduce the waterway’s importance.
We also look at Isra
UAE suspends trade with Iran, US-Iran talks stall, and Israel strikes Syria
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the UAE suspends all activities, trade exchanges and financial transactions with Iran, following the latest escalation in the conflict, marking a significant shift in their economic relationship.
We also examine US President Donald Trump’s insistence that there are no talks with Iran as the dispute over the Strait of Hormuz continues, while Tehran mainta
Trump warns Oman, new Gaza working groups, and Iraq considers dinar reform
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US special envoy Jared Kushner says Iran is refusing to make the concessions needed for a longer-term agreement after the latest negotiation deadline expired, while Tehran says it has reached an understanding with Oman on a new shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz. We also look at US President Donald Trump's warning to Oman as diplomacy over the s
Arab nations back Gaza peace plan, Hormuz shipping slows, and Iraq corruption crackdown continues
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the UAE joins seven other Arab and Islamic nations in condemning Israel for rejecting renewed efforts to implement US President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan, as Jared Kushner holds talks with Hamas and regional mediators in Egypt.
We also examine a sharp slowdown in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz as attacks on tankers and stalled US-Iran talks c
Adnoc ship attacks condemned, Centcom denies aircraft carrier deaths, and UAE sends aid to Colombia
The UAE has strongly condemned a hostile Iranian attack on two Adnoc-linked ships as they crossed the Strait of Hormuz. The Foreign Ministry called it a flagrant violation of a UN Security Council resolution protecting freedom of navigation.
US Central Command has denied reports from mostly Iranian media outlets that seven Navy personnel died aboard the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. It com
Oil slick nears Omani beaches, anti-ISIS force to leave Iraq and Perseid meteors in sky over UAE
An oil slick off Oman has begun contaminating beaches as it edges closer to shore. It came from the Russia-linked tanker, Caroline Bezengi, which was under sanctions and disabled by an explosion in June. Environmentalists are also warning about the long-term impact of pollution to the region caused by the Iran war.
Iraq and the US have reached a final agreement on the withdrawal of the internation
Assad sentence celebrations, Houthi attack kills six and UAE businesses to pay music copyright fee
Syrians in the city of Deraa, where the 2011 uprising began, celebrated after a court sentenced Bashar Al Assad to death in absentia. Damascus also sentences his brother Maher, security official Atif Najib and other officials on charges of murder and torture.
The Yemeni government says that six people have been killed in a Houthi missile attack on a cargo ship in the Red Sea. The Iran-backed group
Trump secretly switches planes, Houthis seek regional role, and Lebanon inks World Bank deal
US President Donald Trump secretly switched planes in Turkey last month during the Nato summit after US intelligence identified a credible Iranian assassination threat, according to a new report by The Washington Post. The White House did not disclose the switch publicly, raising questions about transparency.
Sources have told The National that the Houthis are seeking to widen the Yemen conflict t
Inflation pressures Tehran, Houthis attack Mokha port, and Netanyahu rejects Gaza plan
US President Donald Trump said inflation in Iran is starting to force the hand of the country’s rulers, and he believes that could benefit the US. It comes as the US military blockade puts more pressure on Tehran.
In Yemen, three civilians were among seven people killed in the latest Houthi attack on Mokha port. The Iran-backed rebel group has also claimed an earlier drone attack on a Saudi Aramco
Houthis hit Saudi Arabia, Iran makes demands in Hormuz talks and Dubai foils gold smuggling plot
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Houthi attacks injure 11 civilians in southern Saudi Arabia and kill dozens of government troops in Yemen, as Riyadh pledges to strengthen security co-operation with regional allies.
We also examine Tehran’s push for sanctions relief in exchange for toll-free shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, with Pakistan expressing hope that progress on maritime routes
Lebanon violence, Hormuz breakthrough hopes and Salah's Trabzonspor move
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, renewed fighting between Israel and Hezbollah threatens a US-mediated framework aimed at ending the conflict in southern Lebanon, as Israeli strikes and forced displacement orders raise concerns over the future of negotiations.
We also look at growing hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with US, Iranian and regional mediat
US-Iran talks continue, Strait of Hormuz proposal and UAE economy picks up
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, President Donald Trump says the US and Iran are holding “very good discussions” but warns Tehran it will face severe consequences if it walks away from a potential deal, while Iranian officials accuse Washington’s threats of slowing progress. We also examine a proposal for a new shipping corridor through the Strait of Hormuz as mediators from Qatar, Oman
Trump warns Iran, Gulf diplomacy intensifies and regional flights remain disrupted
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump says Iran is facing its "last chance" to reach a deal, while Tehran warns American forces would be at serious risk if Washington maintains its blockade of Iranian ports.
We also look at Qatar's diplomatic push to ease regional tensions through talks with Gulf leaders, while flights remain disrupted between the UAE, Bahrain and K
Trump revives Iran talks, Egypt earthquake and UAE approves cholesterol pill
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump says new negotiations with Iran will begin after he halted a planned military strike.
Diplomacy is expected to focus first on reopening the Strait of Hormuz before addressing Tehran’s nuclear programme.
We also look at falling oil prices as markets react to renewed hopes for diplomacy.
We examine a magnitude-5.6 earthquake near
US announces Hamas disarmament deal, Saudi Arabia aims to protect Red Sea shipping and Fifa faces boycott
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump announces that the Gaza Board of Peace has secured an agreement for the "complete disarmament" of Hamas.
We also look at Saudi Arabia’s proposal for a 43-country maritime coalition to protect shipping in the Red Sea, Bab Al Mandeb strait and Gulf of Aden, amid escalating regional security threats.
Plus, European football's gover
US and Iran exchange attacks, Egypt investigates port fire and UAE supports outdoor workers
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US launches a new wave of strikes across Iran after attacks on its military bases in the region.
We examine the aftermath of joint US-Saudi strikes in Iraq, as Iran-backed groups threaten retaliation.
We also look at a fire at Egypt’s Damietta gas terminal, where two vessels were damaged and authorities are investigating the cause, and a US-Saudi con
US-Saudi strikes hit Iraq, Fifa seeks World Cup investment and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi sets opening date
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US and Saudi Arabia launch joint strikes against Iran-backed groups in Iraq after a wave of attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure. We also look at Iran’s missile attack on US military sites in Jordan, as well as renewed attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels.
We also examine the launch of a US-UAE task force to accelerate the development of AI tools for m
Trump hosts Netanyahu, Saudi Arabia intercepts drones and Lebanon explores new oil route
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump prepares to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, with Iran expected to dominate the agenda as Washington weighs diplomacy alongside the threat of renewed military action.
We also examine Saudi Arabia and Jordan intercepting drones targeting their territory
US commander questions Iran campaign, oil prices fall, and Gaza plan moves forward
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, America's top military commander in the Middle East reportedly advised the White House to halt its bombing campaign around the Strait of Hormuz after concluding it had reached the limit of its effectiveness. Axios reports the assessment helped shape US President Donald Trump's decision to pause attacks on Iran, as Tehran and Oman hold talks on reopening
Trump considers major attack on Iran, Iraqi PM visits Tehran, and Gaza's enormous reconstruction cost
Iran has reportedly rejected a ceasefire proposal delivered by Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi during his first visit to Tehran. This comes as US President Donald Trump considers conducting a “massive attack” against Iran.
During his visit, Mr Al Zaidi announced the establishment of an Iraqi-Iranian Joint Economic Committee. The two countries also signed several agreements concerning foreign aff
Trump trades new threats with Iran, alternative routes to Hormuz, and Saudi Arabia's nuclear deal
US President Donald Trump has threatened to target Iranian infrastructure if Tehran attacks commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, as the war continues for a 12th consecutive night.
As the conflict escalates to new fronts, Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed attacks on two tankers in the Red Sea after declaring a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia.
DP World has signed an agreement to build two
Saudi tankers U-turn in Red Sea, Trump pledges support for Lebanon, and chickenpox spreads in Gaza
Several tankers carrying Saudi oil have turned around in the Red Sea one day after the Houthis declared a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia. The new threats are raising fears of further disruption to Gulf trade.
Kuwait’s military air defences intercepted hostile missiles and drones again this morning, which it says was an Iranian attack. This comes as the US completes its 11th consecutive nigh
Houthis threaten maritime embargo, 10th night of US-Iran war, and pilot zone framework begins in Lebanon
Yemen’s Houthi rebels have announced a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia, raising fears of further disruption to Red Sea shipping.
Previous threats have already disrupted Saudi oil exports, with crude loadings through the Bab Al Mandeb strait falling 36 per cent in two weeks.
The conflict between the US and Iran continues for a 10th night. US Central Command said it targeted maritime capabilit
Ninth night of strikes, Brent tops $90 and Gulf flights resume
The conflict between the US and Iran continues to escalate, with both sides launching more attacks across the Gulf and the wider Middle East.
US forces have carried out a ninth consecutive night of strikes on Iranian military targets, while Iran launched missiles towards Jordan, Kuwait intercepted hostile drones, Bahrain activated warning sirens and Tehran warned the Strait of Hormuz would remain
World Cup round-up: Spain are world champions and Messi's era ends
Spain are world champions for the second time after beating Argentina 1-0 in extra time at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. It was a performance that defined their entire tournament: patient, disciplined and ruthless when the moment arrived.
Spain dominated throughout, finishing with 20 attempts to Argentina's two, but Emiliano Martinez kept Argentina alive with a series of crucial saves, finishing
More Gulf strikes, Iraq power threat and India bars sailors from strait
The latest phase of the conflict between the US and Iran enters its seventh consecutive day as Iran launches new missile and drone attacks across the Gulf, while the US carries out another round of strikes on Iranian military targets. Tehran also says no oil or gas will be exported through the Strait of Hormuz for as long as the attacks continue.
India suspends the deployment of its seafarers thro
World Cup round-up: The Malvinas banner, Bellingham flashpoint and race for the Golden Boot
The build-up to Sunday's World Cup final has been overshadowed by two controversies from the semi-final between Argentina and England.
Several Argentina players displayed a banner reading "Las Malvinas son Argentinas", which means "the Falklands are Argentinian", after the final whistle. Fifa's stadium code prohibits political messages and the governing body's disciplinary committee is reviewing t
Greater Tunb struck, US approves arms for Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, and Museum of the Future set for revamp
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the regional war reaches occupied UAE territory after US forces strike Iranian military positions on Greater Tunb. The UAE island was seized by Tehran in 1971. Washington says the operation struck coastal defence systems and other military infrastructure to weaken Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Jordan and Kuw
World Cup round-up: Argentina produce another late miracle to set up Spain final
Argentina are in the World Cup final after beating England 2-1 in Atlanta, scoring twice in the final minutes in another example of the late comebacks that have defined their tournament.
Anthony Gordon gave England the lead in the 55th minute, but Thomas Tuchel's decision to drop deep and protect the lead proved costly. From Gordon's goal until Argentina's equaliser, England had only 12 per cent p
