More than two weeks after the start of the conflict between Iran and the United States, Tehran has continued targeting countries in the Gulf in what appears to be an attempt to escalate global energy concerns and disrupt key trade routes.
In the latest escalation, Iranian drones reportedly struck a building near Dubai Creek Harbour on Thursday, though no injuries were reported. The incident came hours after two drones fell near Dubai International Airport — home to long-haul carrier Emirates and the world’s busiest airport for international travel. Despite four people being injured, flights continued as scheduled, according to the Dubai Media Office on Wednesday.
Here are the latest developments in the Iran-US conflict and rising tensions across the Middle East:
Dubai airport targeted:
Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international passengers, was targeted on Wednesday when two drones landed near the facility, injuring four people. The strike marked a further escalation in Iran’s attempts to pressure the US and Israel to end the war that began on February 28, when the US and Israel launched a surprise attack on Iran that killed its Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.
UN reacts to attacks in Gulf:
Amid Iran’s continuing offensive in the Gulf, the United Nations Security Council approved a resolution calling for an end to what it described as Iran’s “egregious attacks.”
“The international community is resolute in rejecting these Iranian attacks against sovereign countries that are threatening the stability of peoples, especially in a region of strategic importance to the global economy, energy and trade,” said Jamal Alrowaiei, Bahrain’s ambassador to the United Nations.
Iran warns American banks:
After targeting US consulates and embassies across the Middle East, Iran has warned it may strike US and Israeli economic interests in the region, including banks. The threat prompted several firms, including Citigroup, to ask staff to evacuate offices in the Dubai International Financial Centre.
US to release 172 million barrels of oil:
With global energy markets on edge and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz disrupted, the United States said it would release 172 million barrels of crude from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to help stabilise global supplies.
The post Container ship hit off UAE’s Jebel Ali; major Oman port engulfed in flames appeared first on ANC.
Comments are closed.