‘Simply not true’ UK is being dragged into Iraq-style conflict, says foreign secretary
Yvette Cooper says plans under consideration to evacuate about 300,000 Britons from Middle East amid Iran warUS-Israel war on Iran – live updatesIt is “simply not true” that the UK is being dragged into another Iraq-style conflict in the Middle East, Yvette Cooper has said, after an RAF base in Cyprus was struck by an Iranian drone.The attack was part of a barrage of strikes by Tehran around the Middle East following a US-Israeli attack on Saturday that killed the country’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The UK foreign secretary confirmed ministers were considering possible plans to evacuate about 300,000... [Continue Reading]
Safety concerns rise for 60,000 Thai workers in Israel amid escalating Middle East conflict and missile strikes
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has intensified concerns for approximately 60,000 Thai workers currently employed in Israel, whose safety has come under renewed threat following a series of Iranian missile strikes across regional hotspots. The situation has escalated as countries react with enhanced military strategies, leading to the death of several migrant workers and the cancellation of numerous international flights. Among the casualties is a Filipino caregiver named Mary Ann V. De Vera, who was reported killed in Israel amid the current hostilities. Additionally, four South Asian migrant workers have lost their lives, one in Bahrain and three... [Continue Reading]
Hundreds more flights cancelled as world faces worst travel chaos since Covid pandemic
Hundreds of thousands of passengers remain stranded, with key air hubs in Middle East closed amid fallout from US-Israeli strikes on IranUS-Israeli attack on Iran – live updatesHundreds more flights were cancelled on Monday, extending the turmoil in global air travel caused by the US-Israel war on Iran, with hundreds of thousands of passengers already stranded.Leading airline stocks came under pressure after days of disruption, with Donald Trump indicating that the US military action could last another four weeks.Emirates Airlines, the world’s largest international carrier, which suspended all planned services to and from Dubai until 3pm UAE time (10pm AEDT,... [Continue Reading]
Israel strikes Hezbollah in Lebanon after Iran-allied group launches missiles over the border
Conflict spreads to Lebanon as Hezbollah targets Israel over killing of Khamenei and IDF responds with strikes on Beirut Latest updates: US-Israel war on Iran Israel carried out heavy airstrikes on the Hezbollah-controlled southern suburbs of Beirut on Monday, after the Iran-backed group launched missiles and drones towards Israel in retaliation for the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.Residents of Beirut were awoken by the sounds of about a dozen blasts at 3am on Monday, as Israel struck three different locations in the southern suburbs of the capital. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Cathay Pacific halts Dubai flights until Thursday amid US-Israeli attack on Iran
US-Israeli strikes on Iran have grounded at least 37 flights between Hong Kong and the Middle East, with flag carrier Cathay Pacific suspending its Dubai services until Thursday. Cathay also announced on Monday that it would suspend its Riyadh flights until Tuesday amid the developing situation in the region. The carrier said customers booked to travel between Hong Kong and Dubai or Riyadh would be offered more flexibility to rebook, divert, or refund their tickets, with usual fees waived until... [Continue Reading]
Medvedev among tennis stars stranded in Dubai after air strikes
Daniil Medvedev says he is unsure when he will be able to leave Dubai after the exchange of air strikes between the US, Israel and Iran shut down the UAE airport. [Continue Reading]
US-Israel war on Iran live updates: conflict spreads to Lebanon as IDF strikes Hezbollah after attack on Israel
Israeli military says fighting Iran-backed Hezbollah could take ‘many’ more days; US crew bailed out safely after crash-landing, says KuwaitPodcast: The assassination of Iran’s ayatollahHave you been affected by events in the Middle East?Bahrain has said that one person was killed by shrapnel from an intercepted missile. The death of a foreign worker at Salman Industrial City, working on a boat there, marks the kingdom’s first reported fatality in the war.Bahrain, home to the US navy’s 5th fleet, said it intercepted 61 missiles and 34 attack drones launched against it. It said some shrapnel had gotten through, striking buildings and... [Continue Reading]
UK Activates Emergency Evacuation Plans for Citizens Amid Rising Middle East Tensions
With rising tensions in the Middle East following recent US-Israeli military actions against Iranian interests, the UK Foreign Office has activated emergency evacuation plans for British citizens in the region. Approximately 200,000 British nationals are estimated to be currently present, including holidaymakers and business travelers, many of whom have become stranded in the United Arab Emirates due to closed airspace over Dubai. The UK government's decision to prepare an evacuation strategy underscores the volatility of the situation, amplifying the urgency for British citizens in the region to register their whereabouts. Keir Starmer, the UK Labour Party leader, has called for... [Continue Reading]
Iran conflict to cause ‘serious’ travel disruptions as 115,000 Australians remain in region amid cancelled flights
Government has not yet committed to repatriation flights as Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Airways cancel flightsFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe Australian government says travellers should be prepared for “serious” disruptions in coming days amid the turmoil in the Middle East, saying there are limits to what the government can do to help those stranded in the region.The foreign affairs minister, Penny Wong, said many Australians would be affected as countries shuttered their airspace amid the US and Israel’s attacks on Iran. Three major airports that connect... [Continue Reading]
Trump open to talks with Iran as conflict deepens in Middle East
US president signals willingness to engage with Tehran’s surviving leadership as strikes and retaliatory attacks intensify across regionUS-Israel war on Iran – latest updatesDonald Trump said on Sunday he was prepared to talk to what was left of the Iranian leadership iafter the killing of the country’s supreme leader by US-Israeli airstrikes aimed at overthrowing the regime.Trump was speaking as a second day of intense bombing of Iranian cities and Tehran’s missile counterattacks sent tremors across the region and through the global economy. On Monday the conflict spread to Lebanon as Israel began striking Hezbollah targets, after the group launched... [Continue Reading]
Dubai Residents Experience Fear Amid Missile and Drone Strikes Reportedly Launched by Iran
Dubai has recently experienced a surge of distress as missile and drone strikes, reportedly launched by Iran, have rattled residents and visitors alike. British nationals living in the city have described feelings of "unspeakable fear" as they witness smoke billowing from burning high-rises. This alarming escalation comes as part of Iran's declared intent to retaliate following the killing of its supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The airstrikes have led to frightening scenes in the city, where people are taking refuge in hotels and apartments, hoping to evade the ongoing bombardment. Eyewitness accounts detail powerful explosions reverberating throughout the area, with... [Continue Reading]
Foreign Office starts planning evacution of thousands of Britons in Middle East
About 200,000 nationals thought to be in the region as tensions rise after US-Israeli attacks on Iranian regimeUS-Israeli war on Iran: latest updatesThe Foreign Office is drawing up plans to evacuate tens of thousands of British citizens if war in the Middle East escalates, with many travellers currently stranded in Dubai.Keir Starmer said on Sunday that about 200,000 British people are in the region, on holiday or otherwise travelling across the Gulf. He urged everyone in areas targeted by Iranian strikes to register with the Foreign Office to receive advice, with about 94,000 doing that so far. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Brits tell of terror after missiles rain down on Dubai
Britons in Dubai shared their 'unspeakable fear' after hearing loud booms and seeing billowing smoke from buildings amid Iran airstrikes. [Continue Reading]
Iranian strikes hit Dubai and Abu Dhabi, damaging airport terminals and the Burj Al Arab
One person was killed in Abu Dhabi. The UAE claimed to have intercepted hundreds of projectiles as residents sought shelter in basements. [Continue Reading]
Three US service members killed and five injured in military operations targeting Iran during Operation Epic Fury
The United States military confirmed that three American service members have died and five others sustained serious injuries during ongoing military operations targeting Iran. This announcement marks the first confirmed casualties since the commencement of Operation Epic Fury, a strategic initiative launched in conjunction with Israel aimed at dismantling aspects of Iran’s governance. The operations began less than 48 hours prior and have resulted in intensified military strikes, reflecting a significant escalation in the conflict. The identities of the deceased soldiers have not yet been released, pending notification of their next of kin. According to a statement from the US... [Continue Reading]
Hundreds of thousands of travellers stranded or diverted by airspace closures in Middle East
Key transit hubs in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha close, and more than 1,000 flights by Middle Eastern carriers cancelledIran confirms killing of Ayatollah KhameneiUS-Israel war on Iran: latest updatesA visual guide to the US-Israeli strikesHow the US-Israeli bid for regime change unfoldedThe US and Israel’s attack on Iran continued to cause severe disruption to flights throughout the Middle East and beyond on Sunday.Countries across the region closed their airspace, and three of the key airports that connect Europe, Africa and the west to Asia halted operations. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Lucky escape for Brit in Dubai tower after Iranian drone smashes window interrupting his cup of tea
'I didn't even finish my cup of tea. We have just been hit by a drone.' [Continue Reading]
Iran Promises Retaliation After Assassination of Supreme Leader Khamenei in US-Israeli Strike
An intensifying conflict has erupted in the Middle East after the assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a recent US-Israeli strike. In the wake of this significant and provocative event, Iran has promised to execute its "most intense operation" in retaliation, exacerbating already heightened tensions across the region. This incident has added to an atmosphere of instability affecting multiple Gulf states, leading to urgent warnings for foreign nationals, including a notable number of Irish citizens. On Sunday, a strike in Beit Shemesh, a city near Jerusalem in Israel, resulted in the deaths of at least nine individuals, with... [Continue Reading]
Breaking News: Regional Escalation Following Strikes on Iran
BEIT SHEMESH & CENTRAL ISRAEL – A massive wave of Iranian retaliatory missile strikes has struck central Israel, leaving at least nine people dead and dozens more injured. In the city of Beit Shemesh, located west of Jerusalem, emergency services report that at least 27 people were wounded after a ballistic missile impacted a residential area. Rescuers are continuing to search for survivors amid heavily damaged apartment buildings and public shelters. GULF REGIONAL IMPACT – The conflict has rapidly widened to include neighboring Gulf states hosting U.S. military assets. Qatar’s Ministry of Defense confirmed it detected 65 ballistic missiles and... [Continue Reading]
'Not the Dubai we know': people stuck in the Emirate react to Iran attacks
One British holidaymaker called it "surreal" to see people try to enjoy themselves as smoke rises nearby. [Continue Reading]
Explosions reported in Tehran amid tensions following the alleged killing of Iran's Supreme Leader in a US-Israel military strike
Explosions rocked Tehran on Sunday as the Islamic Republic of Iran vowed to retaliate following the reported killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israel military strike. The incidents, described by witnesses as deafening explosions, have ignited fears of escalating conflict in the region. This unprecedented event marks a significant turning point in Iranian-American relations and could redefine the political landscape of the Middle East. Following the offensive, Iranian state media confirmed the death of Khamenei and reported that Alireza Arafi is temporarily serving as the nation's leader while a permanent successor is selected. The Iranian government attributed... [Continue Reading]
Iran targets gulf countries: More blasts rock Dubai, Doha and Manama
Yasmine Farouk, Project Diroctor, Gulf and Arabian Peninsula, International Crisis Group, is our guest. [Continue Reading]
Death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei Sparks Unrest and Military Tensions Across the Middle East
The recent death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has triggered a significant wave of unrest and military repercussions throughout the Middle East. Following Khamenei's passing, multiple demonstrations erupted globally, manifesting either as celebrations or protests regarding the ongoing conflicts in the region. Reports indicate heightened tensions, particularly regarding Iran’s relationship with both Israel and the United States, as military actions escalate in response to prior attacks. Eyewitness accounts confirm that smoke was observed rising from Dubai's Jebel Ali Port recently, following confirmed Iranian military retaliatory actions. On Saturday, the port was struck by debris from an intercepted missile. This... [Continue Reading]
‘We thought it was fireworks’: Dubai’s luxury seekers shaken by Iranian missiles
Authorities seek to reassure visitors after tourists at five-star resorts had to shelter in underground car parksUS-Israel war on Iran – latest updatesThe weekend began as it often does in Dubai. By late morning on Saturday, the beach clubs on Palm Jumeirah were already at capacity. Along the waterfront promenade, running clubs gathered beneath the towers, filming their warm-ups before setting off in neat formation.On Instagram, the city appeared untouched: blue skies, a flat sea and the steady churn of shoppers inside the Dubai Mall. Across the Gulf, however, the largest regional war since the 2003 invasion of Iraq was... [Continue Reading]
US and Israel Launch Airstrikes Against Iran in Operation "Epic Fury" Amid Rising Military Tensions
In a dramatic escalation of military tensions, the United States and Israel have initiated a series of airstrikes against Iran. This unprecedented military operation, referred to as "Epic Fury," comes in response to Iran's recent threats of retaliation following a significant escalation of hostilities. The operation is marked by a promise from President Donald Trump to respond to Iranian aggression with a force unprecedented in its capacity. The situation has led to widespread cancellations and delays in air travel across the Middle East, causing tens of thousands of passengers to be stranded. Confirmed reports state that on a recent weekend,... [Continue Reading]
Iran Launches Retaliatory Strikes on Dubai and Abu Dhabi Airports Following US and Israel Attacks
In a tense escalation of hostilities triggered by ongoing attacks from the US and Israel, Iran launched retaliatory strikes affecting airports in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The assault resulted in the death of one individual and injuries to eleven others, marking a significant turn in regional dynamics. The attacks occurred as Iranian state media confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which has further intensified the geopolitical landscape in the Middle East. Details emerging from the aftermath indicate that a drone targeting Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi was intercepted, resulting in falling debris that tragically led to... [Continue Reading]
In pictures: Strikes across Tehran, Tel Aviv and Dubai
Images from across the Middle East show escalating tensions and widespread fallout after coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran [Continue Reading]
Video: Smoke seen rising from Dubai’s main shipping port after Iran attack
Plumes of smoke were seen rising from Dubai's Jebel Ali Port on Sunday morning as Iran continued its retaliation. [Continue Reading]
One killed and 11 injured at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports as Iran strikes region
Several deaths are reported across the Middle East as Tehran retaliates for massive strikes by the US and Israel. [Continue Reading]
More blasts rock Dubai, Doha and Manama as Iran targets US assets in Gulf
Iran's retaliatory attacks on US assets in the region continue for a second day as fears of a wider conflict rise. [Continue Reading]
Explosions reported in Dubai, Doha, and Manama amid Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting the Gulf region
Explosions resounded in Dubai, Doha, and Manama this morning, coinciding with a wave of Iranian attacks across the Gulf region. This escalation follows Iran's launch of 137 missiles and 209 drones aimed primarily at targets in the United Arab Emirates, including a direct strike on the Emirati capital, Abu Dhabi. The incident marks a significant increase in hostilities amidst ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States, along with allied forces in the region. The blasts reported in Dubai and Manama were accompanied by columns of thick, black smoke seen rising from Doha, creating a scene of panic and uncertainty.... [Continue Reading]
Joint US-Israeli Airstrike on Iran Causes Flight Disruptions Across Middle East
In a significant escalation of military tensions in the Middle East, a joint US-Israeli strike on Iran has catalyzed widespread flight disruptions across the region. Reports indicate that at least 27 flights from Hong Kong to various Middle Eastern destinations, including Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, Doha in Qatar, and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, were canceled or delayed due to airspace closures prompted by the airstrikes. The situation has left hundreds of passengers stranded at Hong Kong International Airport, seeking information and alternative travel arrangements. During a chaotic day at the airport, many stranded travelers voiced frustration and confusion... [Continue Reading]
More explosions heard in Dubai, Doha and Manama
Fresh blasts were heard across the Gulf cities of Dubai, Doha and Manama this morning after a day of Iranian strikes in retaliation for US and Israeli attacks. [Continue Reading]
Iran ‘internationalises battlefield’ as retaliatory missiles put Gulf in firing line
Thunderous blasts and towering fireballs from Iranian missiles streaking across Gulf states vindicated their leaders’ long-held fears that Tehran can bring war to their doorstep, likely to harden Arab rulers’ support for US-Israeli strikes. Even in The Palm, Dubai’s swankiest resort, explosions rattled buildings and hit a luxury hotel, sending panicked residents running for cover as missiles and interceptors tore across the sky. Dubai’s landmark Burj Al Arab hotel and the airport, which... [Continue Reading]
Travellers stranded at Hong Kong airport as at least 27 Middle East flights disrupted
A joint US-Israeli attack on Iran forced airlines to cancel or delay at least 27 flights from Hong Kong to destinations in the Middle East on Sunday, leaving travellers stranded at the city’s airport. Hundreds of passengers packed Hong Kong International Airport on Sunday morning to inquire about the suspended departures, primarily to Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, Doha in Qatar and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Hong Kong flagship carrier Cathay Pacific Airways was among the airlines to... [Continue Reading]
Iranian strikes damage Dubai airport and luxury hotel
Iran's retaliatory strikes have damaged Dubai's international airport and the landmark sail-shaped Burj Al Arab hotel. [Continue Reading]
US-Israel war on Iran: Ayatollah Ali Khamenei confirmed dead by state media – latest reports
This blog is now closed. Follow news and updates from the US-Israel war on Iran in our new live blog hereUS-Israel war on Iran live: latest news and updatesLoud explosions were heard early on Sunday near Erbil airport, which hosts US-led coalition troops in Iraq’s autonomous Kurdistan region, AFP reported. Thick black smoke was rising from the airport area.On Saturday, US-led coalition forces downed several missiles and explosive-laden drones over Erbil. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Iranian missile strikes Fairmont hotel in Dubai following US and Israeli air strikes in Tehran
Recent military escalation in the Middle East has led to significant developments, particularly involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. Following air strikes by the US and Israel in Tehran, Iran has retaliated by launching missiles, reportedly targeting key locations across the region. Notably, an Iranian missile struck the luxurious Fairmont hotel situated in Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah area, resulting in significant fire damage and injuries. Witnesses reported that four individuals sustained injuries during this missile strike, an indication of the immediate threats facing civilians as tensions rapidly escalate. The backdrop of these events is rooted in the current situation surrounding... [Continue Reading]
Dubai’s famous Fairmont hotel in flames after Iranian air strike
War launched by US and Israel on Iran has quickly escalated prompting anxiety and concern in whole regionFull reportUS-Israeli attack on Iran – live updatesIran struck the world-famous Fairmont hotel in Dubai, setting the hotel alight, as the war launched by the US and Israel on Iran quickly spread to the rest of the Middle East on Saturday.Residents watched in shock as an Iranian missile hit the five-star hotel in Dubai’s luxurious Palm Jumeirah area. Social media videos showed fires breaking out near the entrance of the hotel, which led to four people being injured. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Vicky Pattison reveals she’s ‘stuck in Dubai’ after Iranian missile airstrike
'We are aware that the situation that is unfolding is scary...' [Continue Reading]
Euronews journalists in Dubai report multiple drone attacks on residential areas
Euronews journalists in Dubai report explosions and missile strike on a residential area, with fires engulfing buildings and evacuations underway. Correspondent Jane Witherspoon says panic spread as people fled the Palm tourist district following the latest blasts. [Continue Reading]
Missiles launched from Iran strike near Dubai's Palm Jumeirah, causing fire at Fairmont The Palm hotel and damage from debris
In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, several missiles reportedly launched from Iran struck near Dubai's Palm Jumeirah, leading to a significant fire at the Fairmont The Palm hotel. Eyewitness accounts confirm that the attack occurred as the iconic resort was engulfed in flames, sending plumes of smoke into the air. Authorities have stated that air defense systems successfully intercepted multiple missiles aimed at various Emirati targets, but debris from the intercepted missiles caused significant damage to the luxury hotel. Local residents and tourists on the Palm Jumeirah reported hearing several loud explosions coinciding with the airstrike. According to witnesses,... [Continue Reading]
Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah Fairmont hotel engulfed in flames after Iranian missile attack
Holidaymakers reported hearing several bangs across the Emirati city. [Continue Reading]
Iran launches retaliatory strikes at targets across Middle East
Smoke and flames rose from Dubai's Fairmont The Palm hotel as civilian targets came under fire along with the US military bases across the middle east. [Continue Reading]
Is it safe to travel to Dubai right now? Emirates cancels all flights amid Iran strikes
Wondering whether it's possible to travel to Dubai right now? [Continue Reading]
US and Israel launch strikes on Iran: what we know so far
Joint operation prompts Tehran to retaliate with missile attacks on bases across Middle EastAyatollah Ali Khamenei killed, says Donald TrumpUS-Israeli war on Iran – live updatesA visual guide to US-Israeli strikes on Iran – and Tehran’s responseIran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei has been killed as the US and Israel launch a war on Iran to trigger regime change, Donald Trump has claimed. The US president announced the death of the ayatollah, who has ruled Iran as supreme leader since 1989, in a post on Truth Social. “Khamenei, one of the most evil people in History, is dead,” Trump wrote.The death... [Continue Reading]
