Debris falls in Dubai, fire breaks out at Fujairah port as UAE deals with 9 missiles, 33 UAVs

Day 15 of war

It's now the fifteenth day of the US-Israel-Iran war that broke out on February 28, 2026, when Israel and the US launched a joint air campaign and struck targets in Iran.

The scope of the conflict has dramatically widened ever since to include the Gulf, Jordan, Lebanon, and Iraq, with no sign yet of a breakthrough.

In the UAE, air defences continue to respond to Iranian attacks with drones and missiles. Residents carry on with their lives as usual while taking precautionary measures when they receive public safety alerts from authorities.

Stay tuned to Khaleej Times as we continue our daily live coverage of the war and its repercussions across the entire Middle East.

Day-by-day updates

Since this war broke out, Khaleej Times has been following up the events and keeping its readers well-informed.

Take a look at developments in this escalating conflict:

• Day 1

• Day 2

• Day 3

• Day 4

• Day 5

• Day 6

• Day 7

• Day 8

• Day 9

• Day 10

• Day 11

• Day 12

• Day 13

• Day 14

Key Iranian oil hub struck: Trump

The United States on Friday destroyed military targets on Iran's main oil hub of Kharg Island, President Donald Trump said, threatening to strike its oil infrastructure if Iran continues attacks that have halted most ship traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.

The island serves as the export terminal for 90% of Iran's oil shipments. In a social media post, Trump wrote the US military "totally obliterated every MILITARY target" on Kharg while leaving oil infrastructure intact.

US strikes did not target Kharg's oil infrastructure. "However, should Iran, or anyone else, do anything to interfere with the Free and Safe Passage of Ships through the Strait of Hormuz, I will immediately reconsider this decision," Trump wrote.

Kharg is 16 miles (26 km) from Iran's coast, about 300 miles (483 km) northwest of the Strait of Hormuz.

Qatar intercepts missile attack

Qatar's Defence Ministry announced early on Saturday that the country's armed forces intercepted a missile attack.

Earlier, another missile attack against the Gulf country was foiled.

Incident in central Dubai contained

Authorities in Dubai have confirmed that the incident caused by debris from a successful interception, which struck the façade of a building in central Dubai, has been fully contained.

No fire occurred and no injuries were reported, said Dubai Media office (DMO).

Saudi Arabia intercepts more drones, missiles

In separate statements overnight and in the early morning hours, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Defence announced intercepting and destroying:

• 1 drone in the Eastern Province

• 1 drone in Al Jawf region

• 1 drone in the Eastern Province

• 5 drones in the Eastern Province

• 1 drone in the Empty Quarter

• 1 drone in the Empty Quarter

• 1 ballistic missile that was launched towards Al Kharj Governorate

• 1 drone in the Eastern Province

• 1 drone in the Eastern Province

• 6 drones in the Eastern Province

Arrests in the UAE

In the UAE, 10 individuals of various nationalities were arrested and referred to urgent trial for publishing video clips on social media platforms containing misleading, fabricated content, as per orders by the country's Attorney-General Dr Hamad Saif Al Shamsi.

According to information released by authorities, the above list of defendants includes an Egyptian, a Filipino, a Vietnamese, a Pakistani, an Iranian, a Bangladeshi, a Cameroonian, a Nepalese and two Indians.

Earlier, the Abu Dhabi Police arrested 45 people of multiple nationalities for filming various locations amid current ongoing events and posting clips on social media.

The detainees were also accused of sharing inaccurate and misleading information. Authorities warned that such actions could "provoke public opinion and spread rumours."

12 medical staff killed in Lebanon

An Israeli strike in southern Lebanon killed a dozen medical staff at a clinic, Lebanese health authorities said.

Lebanese health authorities said an Israeli strike killed 12 doctors, paramedics and nurses working at a healthcare centre in the town of Burj Qalawiya, following another strike on the town of Sawaneh that left two paramedics affiliated with Hezbollah and its ally Amal dead.

Israel on Friday destroyed a bridge over the Litani River between the towns of Zrariyeh and Tayr Falsay, according to Lebanon's state-run National News Agency. The river bisects southern Lebanon, from east to west.

Precautionary evacuations in Qatar

Temporary precautionary evacuation measure were taken in Qatar for residents in specified areas who received notifications through the National Alert System, according to the Gulf country's Ministry of Interior.

"Safe alternative accommodations have been provided for those affected, while some have chosen to move to safe places of their own choice, until the security threat passes," it said.

US embassy in Baghdad attacked: Iraqi source

An Iraqi security source told AFP that a drone attack targeted the US embassy in the capital Baghdad.

More travel distruptions

Air Canada announced cancelling its Toronto-Dubai flights until at least May 1 due to unrest in the region.

"We plan to reintroduce service gradually when flights can safely resume. We continue to add capacity to Delhi to provide travellers with options to Canada," the carrier said.

Drone shot down in Kuwait

Kuwait's National Guard said that its forces sucessfully shot down a drone at one of the sites they are responsible for securing.

Missile hits its target in Israel: Iranian state media

Iran's state news agency shared a video of what it called an Iranian missile hitting the Nevatim base in Israel. Watch the video here:

Two strikes in Baghdad

Explosions rocked Iraq's capital Baghdad after two strikes targeted the powerful Iran-backed group Kataeb Hezbollah, killing two members including a "key figure", security sources said.

The strikes are the first in the heart of Baghdad to kill Iran-backed fighters since the start of the Middle East war on February 28, which has not spared Iraq, long a proxy battleground between the US and Iran.

"At 02:15 am (2315 GMT Friday), a missile struck a house that was being used by Kataeb Hezbollah," said a security source, adding that "a key figure was martyred," and two members of the group were wounded.

Israel issues evacuation order

Israel's army issued an evacuation order for a designated industrial area in the Iranian city of Tabriz.

Iran 'totally defeated': Trump

Hezbollah says ready for long battle

Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem said his group was ready for a long confrontation with Israel. The Israelis will be surprised on the battlefield, Qassem added in his second televised address since the latest war began.

In a statement after destroying a bridge over the Litani River in Lebanon, Israeli defence minister Israel Katz said: "This is just the beginning".

Attacks in Iraq

Iraqi security sources told Reuters the US embassy in Baghdad was targeted in a missile attack.

Iraq has downed a drone targeting a US diplomatic centre near Baghdad Airport, they added.

UAE Cybersecurity Council issues warning

Stressing the importance of adopting strong cybersecurity practices to ensure the safety of users, the UAE Cybersecurity Council issued a fresh warning against the threat of wiper malware.

It also outlined a set of recommendations to support both individuals and organisations in protecting their systems and data.

Hegseth calls for 'patriotic press', slams CNN

The Pentagon and White House slammed CNN over its Iran war coverage, with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth saying he looked forward to an ally of President Donald Trump taking over the news network.

Hegseth spent part of a news conference on US military operations against Tehran criticizing the media and CNN in particular, urging for what he called an "actual patriotic press."

The former Fox News host was particularly incensed by a story the channel ran suggesting Washington had underestimated Iran's ability to disrupt global oil traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.

"Patently ridiculous," Hegseth told reporters, before adding: "The sooner David Ellison takes over that network, the better."

The White House also blasted the CNN story on the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for the world oil trade.

"This story is 100% FAKE NEWS," Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a post on X.

CNN responds

Why is Kharg island so significant to Iran?

Kharg Island, which was struck by US forces early on Saturday, is a scrubby stretch of land in the northern Gulf and any attempt to seize it would mark a major escalation in the conflict, according to analysts.

Located around 30 kilometres (19 miles) off the Iranian mainland, the island handles roughly 90 percent of Iran's crude exports, according to a recent JP Morgan note.

Kharg underwent key developments during Iran's oil expansion in the 1960s and 1970s, with much of the country's coast too shallow for supertankers.

Iran has looked to diversify its export capabilities by opening the Jask terminal outside the Strait of Hormuz chokepoint in the Gulf of Oman in 2021, but Kharg remains "a critical vulnerability" for Iran, as per JP Morgan.

First photos of US embassy in Baghdad complex after attack

The US embassy in Baghdad was hit by an attack on Saturday following strikes that killed two members of a powerful Iran-backed group in the capital, two security officials said.

A cloud of black smoke rose above the US diplomatic mission shortly after the sound of explosions on Saturday morning, an AFP journalist said. Take a look at first photos of the complex following the reported attack:

Hostile threats against Bahrain since February 28

Hamas urges Iran to stop targeting neighbouring countries

Palestinian group Hamas called on Iran to refrain from targeting neighbouring countries.

"While affirming the right of the Islamic Republic of Iran to respond to this aggression by all available means in accordance with international norms and laws, the movement calls on the brothers in Iran to avoid targeting neighbouring countries," Hamas said in a statement.

No damage to oil infrastructure in Kharg, says Iran

No oil infrastructure was damaged in US strikes on Kharg Island, as per Iranian media

Citing sources on the ground, Fars news agency reported there had been no damage to oil facilities after President Donald Trump said US bombardment of the island had destroyed military targets.

Trump had threatened in a social media post to target oil infrastructure on the island, a crucial hub for Iran, if Tehran continued to block the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Qatar strategic reserves sufficient

Qatar's strategic water reserves are sufficient for four months while the Gulf country's food security reserves are sufficient for 18 months, according to Qatar's interior minister Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani.

Another drone intercepted in Saudi Arabia

Another drone was intercepted and destroyed in Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom's Ministry of Defence said.

Beirut building struck for second time in two days

An Israeli strike hit an apartment building in a northern Beirut suburb that had also been targeted a day earlier, Lebanese media reported on Saturday.

An AFP correspondent saw rescue workers at the scene and damage, including a hole, in a building in the Nabaa-Burj Hammoud area, outside Iran-backed Hezbollah's strongholds in the capital's southern suburbs.

The same building had been struck on Friday without causing casualties.

AI Czar says US should declare victory and get out

White House AI czar David Sacks said the US should "declare victory and get out" of its war on Iran.

The US had degraded Iran's military capabilities, he added in an appearance on the "All-In Podcast."

"If escalation doesn't lead anywhere good, then you have to think about, well, how do you de-escalate? De-escalation, I think, involves reaching some sort of ceasefire agreement or some sort of negotiated settlement with Iran," he said.

The comments represent a rare instance of a prominent figure in Trump's administration calling for an exit from the Iran conflict.

Trump shares video of strikes against Iran

The following video of unidentified strikes on Iran was shared by Trump on his Truth Social platform. Watch here:

In memory of Minab girls

Colourful backpacks were hung on a wall in Iran in memory of dozens of schoolgirls who were killed in an airstrike on the first day of war at the city of Minab.

Bahraini royal visits the injured

In a humanitarian gesture, Bahraini royal, Shaikha Sheema bint Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, granddaughter of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, visited some of those who were injured in Iranian attacks on Sutra region.

Swipe right to see more photos:

Akasa Air to operate select flights to/from Jeddah

Indian carrier Akasa Air said that it will operate select flights to/from the Saudi city of Jeddah and Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kochi, and Kozhikode, while stressing operating these flights is based on the prevailing situation and our ongoing safety assessment and may be subject to change.

Flights to/from Riyadh remain suspended until March 17, 2026 and to/from Abu Dhabi, Doha and Kuwait remain suspended until March 19, 2026.

The airline clarified that it has extended its cancellation/rescheduling charges waiver policy for passengers booked to or from these cities until March 31, 2026.

Kuwait receives first shipment of fresh food supplies

The first Kuwait Airways flight to transport a shipment of fresh food supplies has arrived in the Gulf country, as authorities work to limit the war's impact on consumers.

The shipments included fresh meat, fruits, vegetables, and several other food commodities, Kuwait's state news agency said.

The Ministry of Commerce stated that this step was taken in cooperation with the private sector, to accelerate the arrival of food shipments to the country and enhance the flow of supplies to the markets.

The suppliers were transported to warehouses equipped with all the necessary facilities for food preservation, in preparation for their distribution to points of sale across Kuwait.

This war must stop: UN Secretary General

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, currently on a visit to Lebanon, said that as Muslims observe Ramadan and Christian communities observe Lent, it is certainly a season of solidarity and generosity—not war.

Update on UK military operations in the region

On March 13, the UK Ministry of Defence published an update on its recent military operations in the Middle East:

• UK Typhoon jets flew air defence operations over Bahrain for the first time

• British Typhoon and F-35 jets are now flying in defence of British interests and allies across Qatar, Cyprus, UAE, Jordan, and Bahrain

• Following recent strikes on coalition bases in Iraq, multiple drones were shot down overnight by a British counter-drone unit in the region

• UK defences in the Eastern Mediterranean now include Typhoon and F-35 jets, air defence and counter-drone units, Wildcat and Merlin helicopters. A further 400 air defence personnel are currently deployed to protect British lives and interests.

No fireworks, drone shows at Global Village

Amid the escalating war in the Middle East, Dubai's world famous Global Village has recently announced that it will be closed until further notice.

On Saturday, the popular family destination issued a statement to say that it has cancelled its fireworks and drone shows scheduled for Eid Al Fitr this year, as per KT reporter Nasreen Abdulla.

"Global Village is following the country-wide government directives of no fireworks and drone shows," it said.

Formula One races in Middle East set to be cancelled

Next month's Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Formula One Grands Prix are set to be cancelled due to the war.

Multiple sources said an announcement, seen within the sport as just a matter of time, was expected by Monday at the latest with a March 20 deadline looming for freight that has to be transported to Bahrain for logistical reasons.

Bahrain was scheduled for April 12 with the Saudi race in Jeddah on April 19.

The World Endurance Championship (WEC) has already postponed what would have been its season-opener in Qatar on March 26-28, with the first race now scheduled for Italy's Imola circuit on April 19.

The Qatar round at the Lusail circuit outside Doha, which also hosts Formula One in November, has been rescheduled for October 24 as the penultimate round before the finale in Bahrain on November 7.

MotoGP is due to race in Qatar on April 12 with that round also likely to be cancelled.

Fire breaks out in Fujairah after drone interception

A fire broke out due to falling debris in Fujairah, the emirate's media office confirmed on Saturday.

The incident followed the successful interception of a drone by air defences and did not result in any injuries.

Fujairah Civil Defense teams are currently responding to the incident to bring it under control.

Iran claims USS Abraham Lincoln damaged

The USS Abraham Lincoln suffered serious damage from a powerful assault by the Iranian Armed Forces and retreated kilometers, Iran state news agency quoted the spokesperson for Iran’s Armed Forces Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi as saying.

Akasa Air to introduce fuel surcharge

In light of increasing prices of aviation turbine fuel due to the war, Akasa Air announced that it will introduce a fuel surcharge ranging from199 to 1,300 Indian rupees on its domestic and international routes, for all bookings that are made with effect from 00:01 on March 15, 2026.

The fuel surcharge will be applied per sector and will vary based on the duration of the flight.

Macron thanks Iraqi PM

President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday said he had expressed gratitude to the Iraqi prime minister for taking measures to protect French forces, after a drone strike killed a French soldier in Iraq's Kurdistan region.

"Yesterday, I spoke with the Iraqi prime minister, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani," Macron said on X, writing in French and Arabic.

"I thank him for his commitment to getting to the bottom of this attack and to strengthening measures to protect our forces, who are present in Iraq to fight, alongside the Iraqis, against the scourge of terrorism."

Iraq's prime minister has vowed to prevent further attacks after Frion's death.

Arnaud Frion, 42, was killed and six other French soldiers were wounded on Thursday evening in a drone attack in the Erbil region of Iraqi Kurdistan. He is the first French soldier to die since the start of the war in the Middle East.

France ready to facilitate ceasefire talks

French President Emmanuel Macron said that France is ready to facilitate ceasefire discussions between Israel and Lebanon in Paris.

He said that the Lebanese leadership was open to direct discussions with Israel and called on Israel to "seize this opportunity to launch ceasefire discussions, to find a lasting solution and to allow the Lebanese authorities to put in place their engagements for Lebanon's sovereignty."

He called on Israel to stop its offensive and on Hezbollah to stop its actions.

Iran issues warning

The spokesman for Iran's Defence Ministry said that Tehran will increase its usage of 'upgraded weapons', according to state media.

He also warned of tit-for-tat attacks if Iranian energy infrastructure is targeted.

More Omanis return home

More groups of Omanis have safely arrived home from a number of GCC states via land border crossings, the Sultanate's Foreign Ministry said.

The war in images

Rare exception

Iran has allowed some Indian vessels to sail through the Strait of Hormuz, Tehran's Ambassador to India Mohammad Fathali said on Saturday, ​confirming a rare exception to the blockade that has disrupted global energy supplies.

Fathali did not confirm the number of vessels that have been provided safe passage. He was speaking at broadcaster India Today's conclave in New Delhi.

Since the United States and Israel launched a bombing campaign on Iran, Tehran has largely halted ​traffic through the strait, which runs past its coast and through which around 20% of global oil ​and seaborne liquefied natural gas is supplied.

LPG on its way to India

Two Indian flagged LPG carrying vessels have transited through the Strait of Hormuz and now are on their way to India with approximately 92,700 Metric Tons of LPG.

Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary in the Shipping Ministry on Friday informed that the vessels Shivalik and Nanda Devi are now expected on March 16 and 17, ANI reported.

UAE tackles 9 ballistic missiles, 33 drones on March 14

UAE air defenses dealt with 9 ballistic missiles and 33 UAVs coming from Iran on March 14, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement on Saturday.

Since the onset of the blatant Iranian aggression, UAE air defences have engaged 294 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1600 UAVs launched from Iran.

No new injuries were reported on Saturday. Till March 13, UAE reported 6 fatalities and 141 minor injuries as a result of the regional war.

War with Iran entering 'decisive phase': Israeli defence minister

Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz said Saturday the war with Tehran was entering a "decisive phase", praising US strikes on what Washington called military targets on Iran's Kharg Island oil export hub. 

"The global and regional struggle against Iran, led by US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is escalating and entering the decisive phase that will continue as long as necessary," Katz told military top brass in a televised statement.

Philippine Airlines suspends flights to Middle East

Philippine Airlines (PAL) has announced the temporary suspension of its flights between Manila and selected Middle East destinations — Riyadh (RUH), Doha (DOH), and Dubai (DXB) — until March 28, 2026.

• PR 654/655 Manila-Riyadh-Manila

• PR 658/659 Manila-Dubai-Manila

• PR 684 Manila-Doha

• PR 685 Doha-Manila

Additional cancellation for March 29, 2026:

PR 685 Doha-Manila

This precautionary measure is being taken considering the evolving security situation affecting parts of the Middle East and the resulting operational uncertainties in certain regional airspace corridors and airport operations, the airline said.

More than 90 Iranian military targets struck on Kharg Island: CENTCOM

United States forces executed a large-scale precision strike on Kharg Island in Iran on Friday night, the U.S. Central Command said on Saturday.

"US Forces successfully struck more than 90 Iranian military targets," CENTCOM said.

'Five Indians dead, one missing', says MEA

Aseem Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf), on Saturday informed that five Indians had been killed while one was injured in the regional conflict in Middle East. He said that the Missions remain open round the clock and are constantly working in all assistance efforts.

Mahajan made the remarks during an inter-ministerial briefing in New Delhi, ANI reported.

"Our missions in Oman, Iraq, UAE remain in touch with the concerned authorities regarding the missing Indian national and for early repatriation of mortal remains of the deceased after completing requisite formalities," he added.

Bahrain airspace closure continues

Gulf Air flights remain temporarily suspended due to Bahrain airspace closure. Meanwhile, Gulf Air operates limited flights to/from Bahrain via Dammam.

UAE condemns targeting of Consulate General in Iraqi Kurdistan, 2 injured

The UAE has strongly condemned a drone attack that targeted its Consulate General in Iraqi Kurdistan for the second time in a week, injuring two security personnel and causing damage to the consulate building.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that targeting diplomatic missions and premises constitutes a flagrant violation of all international norms and laws, particularly the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which guarantees full inviolability for diplomatic premises and personnel. This attack represents a dangerous escalation and a threat to regional security and stability.

Jordan intercepts 79 missiles, drones in week 2 of war

Jordan's Armed Forces said 85 Iranian missiles and drones targeted their territory in the second week of the war. The Jordanian Air Force intercepted 79 missiles and drones, while 5 drones and one missile landed within the Kingdom's territory.

The Civil Defence and police personnel responded to 93 reports of falling objects and shrapnel during the past week. Nine moderate injuries were treated and released from the hospital.

UAE official speaks out on Iranian aggression

Two India-bound tankers cross Strait of Hormuz: shipping ministry

Two Indian-flagged tankers carrying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) have safely passed through the Strait of Hormuz, India's shipping ministry said Saturday, marking a rare exception in the critical naval chokepoint disrupted by the war.

Tehran has all but halted maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, through which about a fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas normally pass.

"They crossed the Strait of Hormuz early morning safely and are en route to India," Rajesh Kumar Sinha, India's special secretary of the ministry of ports, shipping and waterways told reporters at a news briefing in New Delhi on Saturday.

The tankers "Shivalik" and "Nanda Devi", carrying around 92,700 metric tonnes of LPG, are expected to arrive in the next couple of days and are bound for the western ports of Mundra and Kandla.

Jordan condemns targeting of UAE General Consulate in Iraq's Kurdistan Region

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Affairs affirms the necessity of respecting international law and the 1949 Geneva Conventions and the 1961 Vienna Convention to protect diplomatic missions Foreign Affairs announces Jordan's absolute solidarity and standing alongside the United Arab Emirates

Blasts heard over Jerusalem after army detects missiles from Iran

Explosions rang out over Jerusalem on Saturday, AFP reporters heard, shortly after the Israeli military warned that it had detected incoming missiles from Iran.

As the Middle East war triggered by US-Israeli strikes on Tehran entered its third week, the military said its "defence system is operating to intercept the threat".

Reza Pehlavi meets Ukrainian President

Iranian political activist Reza Pehlavi met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

In a post on X Pehlavi said, "Ukraine and Iran are each facing occupation—theirs foreign, ours domestic. Together with our teams, President Zelensky and I discussed how we can work together in our fights for freedom. History is with us. Light will triumph over darkness."

Trump says most planes targeted in attack on Saudi Arabia had little damage

US President Donald Trump has hit back at major American news outlets over what he described as deliberately false reporting on a strike at an airport in Saudi Arabia.

In a strongly worded post on social media, Trump said that while the base was indeed struck a few days ago, reports suggesting that five tanker planes had been "struck down" and rendered unusable were flat-out wrong.

"Four of the five had virtually no damage, and are already back in service," Trump wrote. "One had slightly more damage, but will be in the air shortly. None were destroyed, or close to that."

"Their terrible reporting is the exact opposite of the actual facts," he said. "They are truly sick and demented people that have no idea the damage they cause the United States of America."

"As proven by our Great and Conclusive Election Win in 2024, the People of our Country understand what is happening far better than the Fake News Media," he said.

All Indian seafarers safe in last 24 hours

During a media briefing on the recent developments in the Middle East, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways of India, said that all Indian seafarers in the Gulf are safe, and no untoward incidents involving them have been reported over the last 24 hours.

Hamas calls on Iran not to target neighbouring countries but affirms its right to self-defence

Hamas has called on Iran to not target neighbouring countries, while still reaffirming Tehran's right to respond to the US-Israeli attacks.

This is the first time the group has publicly commented on Iranian policies. It has expressed solidarity with Iran during the war but appeared to steer clear from threatening any retaliatory actions so far.

"While the group affirms Iran's right to respond to this aggression by all available means in accordance with international norms and laws, it calls upon our brothers in Iran not to target neighboring countries," it said.

It also called on all countries in the region and international organisations to immediately stop the war.

Qatar condemns second attack on UAE General Consulate in Iraqi Kurdistan

Qatar in a statement today expressed its "strong condemnation and denunciation of the attack" that targeted UAE's General Consulate in Iraqi Kurdistan for the second time.

It said that the nation consides it a rejected act that constitutes a flagrant violation of international norms and covenants that guarantee the protection of diplomatic missions and their premises.

Oman Air says continuing to offer addditional flights

Oman Air confirmed that it continues to offer additional flights from Muscat to support guests during this period.

Guests arriving via Oman–UAE land borders may book their onward flights through the airline's website, the mobile app, or authorised travel service channels available at Al Khatm, Hafeet, Al Wajajah and Khatmat Malaha.

Trump says 'many countries' will be sending ships to keep Hormuz Strait open, safe; claims 100% of Iran's military capability destroyed  

US President Donald Trump on Saturday urged other nations to send ships to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, the critical chokepoint for global oil supplies disrupted by the war.

Trump, who has said the United States will soon start escorting tankers through the strait, posted on Truth Social that "Many countries, especially those who are affected by Iran’s attempted closure of the Hormuz Strait, will be sending War Ships, in conjunction with the United States of America, to keep the Strait open and safe."

The US president added: "Hopefully China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and others, that are affected by this artificial constraint, will send Ships to the area."

He also claimed that the US had destroyed 100% of Iran's military capability.

Watch: UN chief urges international community to 'step up' support for Lebanon

Iran President says no 'serious inerruption' in services despite war

Dr Masoud Pezeshkian, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, said that "there has been no serious interruption in providing services to the people" despite the war.

"With your support, the noble people of Iran, we will get through these conditions and we will rebuild everything that has been destroyed better than before."

After 15 days of the cruel imposed war, despite the problems of transportation, communications, etc., thanks to our colleagues in the government, there has been no serious interruption in providing services to the people.

Lebanon says Israeli strikes since March 2 have killed 826 people

Iran state media says two more footballers pull Australia asylum bids

Two more players of the Iranian women's football team, which competed in the Asian Cup in Australia, and one member of the backroom staff have withdrawn their requests for asylum in the country, Iranian state media said on Saturday.

Seven members of the visiting women's football delegation — six players and one backroom staff member — had sought sanctuary in Australia after they were branded "traitors" at home for refusing to sing the national anthem during the ongoing war between Iran and the US and its ally Israel.

One of the players had withdrawn her request earlier in the week and linked up with the rest of the team who are returning to Iran via Malaysia, according to Iranian media and Australian authorities.

State broadcaster IRIB said on Saturday "two players and a member of the technical staff of the women's national football team have given up on their asylum application in Australia and are currently heading to Malaysia."

The rest of the team are believed to still be in the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur awaiting their return to Iran.

According to Australian authorities, the first woman who changed her mind over the asylum application exposed the location of the other asylum seekers when she contacted Iran's embassy in Australia.

They were then forced to change the safe house where they were living.

Rights groups have repeatedly accused Iranian authorities of pressuring athletes abroad by threatening relatives or with the seizure of property if they defect or make statements against the Islamic republic.

Abu Dhabi launches second phase of 'Our Community is Prepared' campaign

Abu Dhabi's Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre (ADCMC) has launched the second phase of its 'Our Community is Prepared' campaign.

The campaign targets a wide cross-section of the public, focusing on emergency response procedures, appropriate conduct following official alerts, and safety measures in situations involving potential hazards such as falling debris.

It also addresses the risks posed by photographing accident sites or spreading unverified information during crises, behaviours authorities warn can significantly hamper field response operations.

Salam Air sells tickets at land border points

Salam Air said that it is providing ticket sales services at border points between the UAE and Oman, amid the regional conflict.

These locations include Khatm, Hafeet, Al Wajajah, and Khatmat Milaha.

Iran threatens to target US company facilities in region if its energy sites are hit

Iran vowed on Saturday to attack facilities of US companies in the region if its energy infrastructure is targeted.

In comments reported by state media, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran would act with caution to avoid targeting populated areas.

From UK to Australia: 5 countries that have offered UAE defence support amid Iran war

Countries including the United Kingdom, Australia, France, Italy and Ukraine have stepped up military deployments and defence support to the UAE as tensions escalate.

United Kingdom

The UK has increased its military posture in the region, deploying additional air defence capabilities and aircraft. They have deployed extra counter-drone specialists, additional Wildcat and Merlin helicopters to Cyprus, Typhoon jets to Qatar and begun defensive sorties in support of the UAE, AFP reported.

France

France has also deployed Rafale fighter jets over the UAE to protect its naval and air bases against Iranian attacks, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on March 3, AFP reported.

Ukraine

Ukraine has sent air defence teams to Qatar, the UAE and Saudi Arabia to help them in their fight against Iran's aerial attacks, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Tuesday.

Australia

Australia will deploy a military surveillance ‌aircraft to the Middle East and send missiles to the UAE but won't put troops on the ground in ​Iran, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Tuesday, as reported by Reuters.

Italy

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni had said on March 7 that the country will send air-defence assistance to Gulf countries hit by Iranian strikes, AFP reported.

Kuwait detects 7 drones on Saturday; 3 members of armed forces injured

Kuwait, in a statement on Saturday, said that the nation's air defence system detected seven hostile drones, of which three were destroyed, while two fell outside the threat area and posed no danger.

It added that two drones targeted Ahmed Al-Jaber Air Base, resulting in some material damage in the vicinity of the base, and three members of the armed forces sustained minor injuries, for which they received the necessary treatment, and their medical condition is stable.

Israel and Lebanon expected to hold direct talks in coming days, Haaretz reports

Israel and Lebanon are expected to hold direct talks in the coming days, their first since the start of the Iran war that has drawn Lebanon deeper into conflict, Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported on Saturday, citing two sources with knowledge of the matter.

US President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner will be involved in the talks that may be held in Paris or in Cyprus, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's confidant Ron Dermer leading the Israeli delegation, Haaretz said.

The negotiations were expected to focus on ending fighting in Lebanon and disarming the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah, Haaretz said.

Hezbollah opened fire on Israel on March 2 saying it was retaliating for the killing of Iran's supreme ​leader at the start of the US-Israeli war on Iran.

Over 7,000 Filipino sailors in Middle East marked safe

More than 7,000 Filipino seafarers in the Middle East are “marked safe” based on regular monitoring by the Philippine government, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac has confirmed, reiterating his call to shipowners to ensure the safety of seafarers as regional tension remains unchanged.

Roughly 25 to 30 per cent of seafarers in the world are Filipinos, and several oil tankers and cargo vessels are unable to pass through the Strait of Hormuz since the start of the US-Israel-Iran on February 28. A few vessels have been attacked, including the Thai-registered bulk carrier Mayuree Naree that was struck on Wednesday morning while transiting through the Gulf waterway, after departing from Khalifa Port in the UAE.

Dubai Police urges residents not to approach, photograph any fallen debris

"For your safety, do not approach or photograph any fallen debris. Leave them for authorities to handle," Dubai Police said in a post on X.

It urged residents to report the location of debris immediately by calling 999 or through the Dubai Police app.

Citibank issues clarification on Middle East operations

Citibank, in a thread on X, said that "the decision to evacuate three of our buildings and to temporarily close some branches in the UAE is consistent with our commitment to prioritise the safety of our colleagues".

It added that all UAE and Bahrain-based employees "are accounted for and are safe," the American bank added.

It asserted, "Citi is not leaving the Middle East." The bank affirmed that it has maintained a continuous presence in the region for over six decades.

"We have strong confidence in the resilience and sophistication of regional economies, and the effectiveness and agility of our leadership in response to the situation."

Turkey discussing contradiction with Iran over missiles, foreign minister says

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said on Saturday that Iran had denied responsibility for missiles fired toward Turkey, adding that Ankara was discussing contradictions between Tehran's statements and available technical data on the launches.

Speaking at a press conference in Ankara, Fidan said Turkish authorities possessed technical data regarding the missiles fired toward Turkey and were raising the inconsistencies with Iranian officials.

Drones cause damage, injuries near US base in Kuwait: ministry

Two drones targeted an airbase in Kuwait housing US military staff, injuring Kuwaiti personnel and causing damage, the defence ministry said on Saturday.

"Three members of the armed forces sustained minor injuries" after the attack on Ahmed Al-Jaber Air Base, spokesperson Brigadier General Saud Al-Otaibi said in a statement. The base is near Camp Arifjan, a major US facility.

15 killed in factory in Isfahan: Fars news agency

At least 15 people were killed when a strike by Israel and the United States hit a factory in the central Iranian city of Isfahan, the semi-official Fars news agency said on Saturday.

There were workers inside the factory, which produces heaters and refrigerators, when the strike hit, Fars reported.

Trump rejects efforts to launch Iran ceasefire talks, sources say

President Donald Trump's administration has rebuffed efforts by Middle Eastern allies to start diplomatic negotiations aimed at ending the Iran war that started two weeks ago with a massive US-Israeli air assault, according to three sources familiar with the efforts.

Iran, for its part, has rejected the possibility of any ceasefire until US and Israeli strikes end, two senior Iranian sources told Reuters, adding that several countries had been trying to mediate an end to the conflict.

The lack of interest from Washington and Tehran suggests both sides are digging in for an extended conflict, even as the widening war inflicts civilian casualties and Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz sends oil prices soaring.

Iran's foreign minister says there is no problem with Supreme Leader

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi told MS Now in an interview on Saturday that there is no problem with Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, after US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth claimed on Friday that he was wounded and likely disfigured.

6,000 UAE citizens, companions return home

UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority announced the successful implementation of the approved evacuation plans for UAE citizens residing in a number of countries, as the safe return of approximately 6,000 citizens and their companions to the homeland was secured through various land and air ports, in coordination with the relevant authorities within the country.

The implementation of these operations comes within the framework of the integrated national system of the UAE, which is based on flexibility, constant readiness, rapid response and preparedness to face various emergency and crisis scenarios, and to deal with their developments efficiently, professionally and effectively.

US embassy in Baghdad urges citizens to leave Iraq 'now'

US citizens should leave Iraq immediately, the US embassy in Baghdad said in an updated security alert on Saturday, following an overnight missile attack on the embassy's building.

"US citizens choosing to remain in Iraq are strongly encouraged to reconsider in light of the significant threat posed by Iran-aligned terrorist militia groups," the embassy said.

Kuwait says air defences responding to missile, drone threats

Kuwait says that its air defence systems are currently responding to hostile missile and drone threats.

"The General Staff of the Kuwaiti Armed Forces confirms that any explosions that may be heard are the result of air defense systems intercepting hostile targets," the nation's military said in a notice.

Iran launches new wave of missiles at Israel: Iranian state TV

Fire breaks out after drone strike on Iraq's Lanaz refinery: Security sources

A drone strike targeted Lanaz refinery in Iraq's Erbil, causing a fire to break out at the facility, Reuters reported, citing security sources.

6 arrested in Bahrain for posting clips of aftermath of Iran attacks

Six people have been arrested in Bahrain and referred to Public Prosecution after they posted clips of the aftermath of the Iranian aggression, glorified those acts, and spread false news.

Look: US Air Force pilots deliver supplies to military

US Air Force C-130 pilots can be seen delivering supplies to military during Operation Epic Fury.

Iraqis try to carry on as missiles fly

While Iraqis have grown accustomed to conflict over the decades, this has not diminished their anxiety about a wider war.

Iran FM calls on neighbours to 'expel' US forces from Middle East

Why is the Hormuz Strait so hard to secure?

Shipping lanes are just two nautical miles wide and ships must make a turn opposite Iranian islands and a mountainous coast that provides cover for Iranian forces, according to shipping broker SSY Global.

Iran's conventional navy has largely been destroyed but the Guards still have plenty of options including fast attack craft, mini submarines, mines and even jetskis packed with explosives, said Tom Sharpe, a retired Royal Navy commander.

Tehran has the capacity to produce around 10,000 drones a month, according to the Centre for Information Resilience, a non-profit research group.

Escorting three or four ships a day through the strait would be feasible in the short-term using seven or eight destroyers providing air cover, and would depend on whether the risk from mini submarines has been reduced, but doing so sustainably for months would require more resources, Sharpe said.

Even if Iran's capacity to deploy ballistic missiles, drones and floating mines were destroyed, ships would still face a threat from suicide operations, said Adel Bakawan, Director of the European Institute for Middle East and North African Studies.

If the war does continue for weeks, some kind of escort will come together, said Kevin Rowlands, Editor of the RUSI Journal at the Royal United Services Institute.

"The world needs oil to flow through from the Gulf, and so there is planning ongoing to put protection measures in place,” he said.

GCC condemns second attack on UAE's Consulate General in Iraqi Kurdistan

Jassim Mohammed Al Budaiwi, Secretary General of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, condemned in the strongest terms the second "blatant" attack that targeted the Consulate General of the United Arab Emirates in Iraqi Kurdistan.

The Secretary-General stressed that the "continuation of these treacherous attacks" on the UAE consulate constitutes a grave violation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. He added that this is a "dangerous escalation" that threatens the security and safety of diplomats and staff working in those missions.

Operations at Lanaz Refinery in Iraq's ِِِErbil halted until fire is put out and extent of damage is assessed: Provincial officials

Qatar intercepts 4 ballistic missiles today

Qatar announced that it detected and intercepted four ballistic missiles and detected several drones launched from the Islamic Republic of Iran.

GPS disruptions in UAE? Why your Google Maps, Waze may show wrong locations

“During times of regional tension, authorities may implement security measures to protect sensitive locations. These measures can sometimes affect GPS signals, which navigation apps like Google Maps rely on, leading to temporary location errors or unusual routes,” Mahammad Haneef, head of digital transformation at MBRSC Lab said.

Haneef explained that certain techniques used by security agencies, such as GPS jamming or GPS spoofing, may affect how navigation signals are received by devices.

“GPS jamming involves blocking signals, while GPS spoofing sends false signals to devices. Because civilian navigation apps rely on the same satellite signals, these actions can sometimes cause inaccurate locations or unexpected routes to appear on apps,” he said.

Even small disruptions in satellite signals can sometimes cause phones to briefly show incorrect positions. “Minor interference can result in a navigation app showing the wrong location for a short period of time. In most cases, the system corrects itself quickly once the signal stabilises,” he added.

Kuwait International Airport's radar system struck by several drones: Kuwaiti DGCA  

Kuwait International Airport was targeted by several drones today that struck the airport's radar system, the country's Directorate General of Civil Aviation stated, through its official spokesperson Abdullah Al Rajhi.

No human casualties were recorded.

The authority confirmed that the incident was handled according to the emegency plan that has been in effect since the beginning of the conflict.

Trump says countries must 'take care' of Hormuz

The US has "beaten and completely decimated Iran, both militarily [and] economically," the country's President Donald Trump said in a post on Truth Social.

He said that countries that receive oil through the Hormuz Strait "must take care of that passage", and offered to help with the smae.

Three people arrested in Kuwait for using camera drones: authorities

Police have arrested three people in Kuwait for using camera drones, authorities said on Saturday, after the country warned against filming and spreading information about Iranian strikes.

"Three people were arrested for using aerial camera drones in violation of warnings and instructions," the government's communications centre said.

Swiss reject two flyover requests from US for flights related to Iran war

The Swiss government said on Saturday that it discussed requests by US military and official aircraft to fly over the country, and based on its law of neutrality, rejected two but permitted three.

"The law on neutrality prohibits overflights by parties to the conflict that serve a military purpose related to the conflict. Permitted are humanitarian and medical transits, including the transport of wounded persons, as well as overflights that are unrelated to the conflict," the government said in a statement.

Keep reading Khaleej Times for the latest updates

As the fifteenth day of the US-Israel-Iran war comes to a close, here's a look at some of the most important developments of the day:

In the UAE, air defences dealt with 9 ballistic missiles and 33 drones on March 14. Debris from an interception struck a building facade in central Dubai, and a fire broke out in Fujairah following a drone interception and both were contained with no injuries.

The nation also evacuated approximately 6,000 citizens from abroad.

Ten people were arrested in the UAE and referred to urgent trial for posting misleading content on social media, with 45 more arrested in Abu Dhabi for similar violations.

In the region, the US struck military targets on Iran's Kharg Island in a significant escalation. Trump said oil infrastructure was deliberately spared, but warned it would be targeted if Iran continued to disrupt the Strait of Hormuz. Trump rejected ceasefire efforts and called on other nations.

The US embassy in Baghdad was struck by a drone attack, with explosions also heard across the capital after strikes killed two members of Hezbollah.

Qatar was forced to carry out precautionary evacuations of residents in certain areas, and intercepted multiple missiles throughout the day. Kuwait's international airport radar system was struck by drones, causing damage but no casualties.

One injured in Fujairah fire caused by falling debris; authorities working to contain blaze

Authorities in Fujairah have confirmed that efforts are ongoing to contain the fire caused by falling debris after interceptions by air defences in the Fujairah Petroleum Industries Zone.

They have also confirmed that a Jordanian national sustained minor injuries.