Trending Middle East

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 affairs, finance and energy.

Mr Trump said a US-Saudi civil nuclear agreement signed a day earlier, would advance only if Riyadh joins the Abraham Accords with Israel, marking a shift from his administration's original position.

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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 new deepwater terminals on the UAE’s east coast, creating a trade route that avoids the Strait of Hormuz.

Meanwhile, the US and Saudi Arabia have reached a de...

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 night of strikes on Iran.

In Washington, President Donald Trump said US airlines will be allowed to resume direct flights to Lebanon, ending a four-decade ban. The announcement came during a...

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 capabilities, command centres, and missile and drone sites, while Iran launched attacks on Kuwait and Jordan again.

In Lebanon, the US said pilot zones for the Israeli military’s withdrawal from...

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 unsafe for oil and gas traffic while US attacks continue.

Oil prices climb above $90 a barrel as markets price in the growing risk of disruption to global energy supplies, while flights to Kuwait...

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 with 11, the most ever recorded in a men's World Cup final.

The match turned in stoppage time when Enzo Fernandez, already booked for dissent, received a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Pau...

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 through the Strait of Hormuz after deadly attacks on commercial shipping, with injured sailors from two UAE-operated tankers continuing to receive treatment in the Emirates.

Iraq...

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 the incident. But Argentina's place in final against Spain is not at risk.

England midfielder Jude Bellingham also faces possible disciplinary action after slapping Argentina substitute Valentin Barco on the back of the head after the South American team's semi-final...

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 Kuwait report intercepting renewed Iranian attacks.

We also examine Washington’s approval of nearly $2.5 billion in new military equipment sales to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

In Rome, Lebanon and Israel make progress in their US-bac...

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 possession. Enzo Fernandez made it 1-1 with a long-range strike in the 85th minute before Lionel Messi created the winner in stoppage time, crossing for Lautaro Martinez to head in.

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In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the conflict between the US and Iran shows no sign of easing as they exchange another round of strikes. The latest American attacks targeted Iran's military infrastructure near the Strait of Hormuz, while Tehran launched strikes on US-linked sites in Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait.

We also examine the growing effects of the escalation on global shipping as only a handful of vessels sail through the strait. UAE Minister of State Lana Nusseibeh tells The National that diplomacy remains the best path to reopening one of the world's most important tr...

Spain are in the World Cup final after beating France 2-0 in Dallas – producing one of the most complete performances of the tournament to reach the showpiece.

Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty in the 22nd minute after Lamine Yamal was fouled by Lucas Digne, before Pedro Porro added a second goal in the second half. But the wider story was how Spain neutralised France's attack. Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola managed only three shots on target between them. Spain's midfield, anchored by Rodri, was dominant throughout.

France head coach Didier Deschamps fa...

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, hostilities across the Gulf escalate again after Iranian missiles strike two UAE supertankers in the Strait of Hormuz, killing one sailor and injuring eight. The attacks follow a third consecutive night of US strikes on Iran, while President Donald Trump proposes a 20 per cent transit charge for vessels using the strait under US protection.

We look at the wider impact on travel, as the UK updates its advice for visitors to the UAE, while airports across the Emirates continue operating with only limited disruption despite the latest military escalation.

For the first time since Fifa introduced its world rankings, the top four teams have all reached the semi-finals. France, Argentina, Spain and England were kept apart by a new seeding system and it has delivered a semi-final line-up regarded as the strongest in World Cup history.

France face Spain tonight at 11pm UAE time in Arlington, Texas. France striker Kylian Mbappe is fit and expected to start, but Spain have conceded only one goal in seven matches. The Golden Boot race adds another layer of intrigue to the match, with the two sides carrying the tournament's...

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Iran launches missile and drone attacks across Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait and Oman following waves of US strikes inside Iran. Gulf countries activate warnings and defences as Washington says its operation targeted Iranian military infrastructure to protect shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

We also turn to Qatar, as the country prepares to receive regional and international leaders following the death of former emir Sheikh Hamad. Four days of national mourning have been declared as a mark of respect for the leader credited with transforming the country into a global di...

The World Cup semi-finals are set after a weekend that produced drama, controversy and tragedy in equal measure.

Spain beat Belgium 2-1 in Los Angeles, with Mikel Merino scoring a late winner. That goal came after Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois went off injured and his replacement Senne Lammens spilled a shot from distance.

England beat Norway 2-1 after extra time in Miami, with Jude Bellingham scoring both goals for his team.

Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 after extra time in Kansas City. Alexis Mac Allister struck first then Switzerland equalised in the second half...

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, more explosions are reported across southern Iran as regional mediators work to revive negotiations between the US and Tehran.

We also look at the next phase of the US-backed agreement between Lebanon and Israel, with the first "pilot security zone" expected to be established within days, before talks are held in Rome. But Israeli leaders insist the country's forces will remain in southern Lebanon for "as long as necessary".

The Palestinian Authority announces the first legislative elections in two decades, with voting scheduled for November and a se...

France are in the World Cup semi-finals after beating Morocco 2-0 at Gillette Stadium, ending another historic Arab and African campaign. It is France's third consecutive World Cup semi-final and they have still not conceded a goal at this tournament.

Mbappe was the central figure despite missing a first-half penalty, saved by Bounou in what was a record-equalling moment. The Moroccan goalkeeper has now saved four penalties at World Cups, drawing level with the most by any goalkeeper in tournament history.

After the break, Mbappe curled a superb finish to make it 1-0, levelling with...

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, air raid sirens sound across Bahrain, Qatar and Kuwait after Iran launches missile and drone attacks. Washington launched another round of strikes on Iranian military targets, while President Donald Trump says Tehran wants to make a deal but questions whether it can be trusted to honour one.

We also examine the growing impact on global trade as shipping through the Strait of Hormuz slows to a near standstill. Vessel traffic has dropped sharply, LNG movements remain largely suspended and electronic interference is once again affecting navigation in the Gulf of...

The fallout from Egypt's 3-2 defeat to Argentina is deepening. The Egyptian Football Association has filed a formal complaint with Fifa, calling for an investigation into referee Francois Letexier and his VAR team over what it described as serious mistakes, double standards and improper use of VAR. The EFA has also asked FIFA to remove the officiating crew from the rest of the tournament.

Egypt's team director also claimed the referee threatened Hossam Hassan during the game. Hassan himself said he would not watch another match at this World Cup. The EFA has confirmed it wants Hassan...

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, air raid sirens sound across Kuwait and Bahrain after the US renews strikes on Iran in response to attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.

Oil prices also climb as Washington restores sanctions on Iranian oil exports after the attacks in the waterway.

We also report on the uncertainty surrounding the next round of negotiations between Israeli and Lebanese officials, after Israel announced talks in Rome that Lebanon says it has not yet been notified about.

In the UAE, Abu Dhabi establishes a sp...

Egypt are out of the World Cup, but the anger is just beginning. Argentina came from 2-0 down to win 3-2 in Atlanta in a match that will be debated long after the tournament ends.

Egypt led through Yasser Ibrahim's header, had a Mostafa Zico goal ruled out by VAR for a foul at the other end of the pitch in the build-up, then scored again in the 67th minute to make it 2-0.

Messi set up Romero to pull one back in the 79th minute, equalised four minutes later, and Enzo Fernandez headed the...

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz comes under renewed attack as Iran strikes vessels in the waterway. The incidents have fuelled concerns over energy security as Britain and France prepare a multinational naval mission to protect commercial traffic in the strait.

French President Emmanuel Macron also arrives in Damascus, becoming the first western leader to visit Syria since the end of the civil war in 2024. His talks with President Ahmad Al Shara are expected to focus on reconstruction, investment and regional stability.

We also look ahead to...

Spain are in the World Cup quarter-finals after Mikel Merino's 91st-minute goal ended Portugal's tournament in Dallas. Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, was peripheral throughout and was left in tears after what is almost certainly his final World Cup match. Roberto Martinez confirmed he is stepping down as Portugal's coach.

Belgium beat the US 4-1 in Seattle in a match that rendered the Folarin Balogun controversy irrelevant on the pitch. Belgium were sharper from the start and the game turned when US goalkeeper Matt Freese rushed out of his area and lost possession, allowing Hans Vanaken to finish into an...

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump heads to the Nato summit in Turkey, where Iran, defence spending and support for Ukraine are expected to dominate discussions. European allies are also expected to outline new contributions to security in the Strait of Hormuz.

In Iran, millions of mourners are expected to take part in the funeral procession for former supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as a week of ceremonies continues before his burial in Mashhad.

We also look ahead to a landmark visit to Damascus, where French President Emmanuel Macron is...

England have reached the World Cup quarter-finals after beating Mexico 3-2 at the Azteca, in one of their biggest knockout victories in decades.

Jude Bellingham scored twice in two minutes, but England were reduced to 10 men after a red card for Jarell Quansah and had to defend deep and face 49 Mexican crosses.

Harry Kane scored a penalty and Jordan Pickford made crucial saves. England face Norway in Miami on Saturday.

Erling Haaland scored a late double as Norway won 2-1 in New Jersey to end Brazil's record of reaching at least the quarter-finals...

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Syria investigates a deadly bombing near Damascus’s main courthouse, after the attack killed nine people and injured more than 20.

We also look ahead to the funeral of Iran's former supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Public ceremonies are to begin this weekend before a series of processions across Iran and Iraq, while officials say Iran’s new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, is unlikely to appear because of security concerns.

At the UN, Bahrain accuses Iran of carrying out hundreds of attacks on civilian infrastructure across the Gulf...

Algeria are out of the World Cup after a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in Vancouver. Breel Embolo opened the scoring after 10 minutes and Dan Ndoye added a second just after half-time. Algeria had plenty of possession but not enough quality in the final third, and they failed to build the pressure they needed after falling behind. Switzerland will face either Colombia or Ghana in the last 16.

Spain beat Austria 3-0 in Los Angeles for their first World Cup knockout win since 2010, with Mikel Oyarzabal scoring twice. Spain have scored eight goals in four matches and are yet...

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, debate continues over Lebanon’s new agreement with Israel, with former US envoy Jeffrey Feltman questioning President Donald Trump’s suggestion that Syria should take on Hezbollah. Legal experts also warn that a clause in the agreement could complicate efforts by victims of the war to pursue international accountability.

We also have the latest on US-Iran diplomacy, as Qatar says this week’s indirect negotiations in Doha made positive progress towards a permanent agreement. The talks focused on the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s nuclear programme, Lebanon and the release of...

England survived a scare against DR Congo, falling behind after seven minutes before Harry Kane scored twice in the final 15 minutes to set up a 2-1 win. Kane now has five goals at the tournament. England face Mexico at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City in the last 16 in the early hours of Sunday.

The USA beat Bosnia 2-0 despite finishing with 10 men after Folarin Balogun was sent off following a VAR review in the second half. Malik Tillman sealed it with a free kick in the 82nd minute. Balogun will miss the last-16 match against Belgium...

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Gaza health officials warn that the rate of miscarriages has risen to nearly 50 per cent. Doctors blame malnutrition, contaminated water, collapsing healthcare services and repeated displacement, with hundreds of miscarriages recorded in a month.

We also turn to Doha, where Qatar is hosting a round of talks aimed at implementing the interim agreement between the US and Iran. While Qatari mediators continue efforts to move the process forward, Tehran insists its delegation is meeting only with Qatari officials and not American envoys.

The future of the Strait of...

Mexico won their first World Cup knockout match in 40 years, beating Ecuador 2-0 at the Azteca after an hour-long storm delay. Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez scored as Mexico maintained their run of clean sheets at this tournament. Seventeen-year-old Gilberto Mora also became the youngest player to start a World Cup knockout match since Pele in 1958.

France delivered the most complete performance of the knockout stage so far as they beat Sweden 3-0, with Kylian Mbappe scoring twice. He now has 18 World Cup goals, one behind Lionel Messi's all-time record. Mbappe's teammate Michael Olise has now contributed...

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the UAE enters a new era of transport as Etihad Rail launches the country’s first national passenger service. The inaugural journey between Fujairah and Abu Dhabi marks a historic milestone for the UAE and the wider Gulf region, with more stations to open in the coming months.

We also examine conflicting statements over the next phase of US-Iran diplomacy. US President Donald Trump says talks are to take place in Doha, while Tehran insists its delegation is travelling only to oversee the implementation of the interim agreement. Negotiations on a...

Morocco are through to the last 16 of the World Cup after beating the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties in Monterrey, in a match the Arab side dominated for long periods without being rewarded.

Cody Gakpo put the Dutch ahead in the 72nd minute against the run of play, but substitute Chemsdine Talbi, one of three under-21 players introduced by coach Mohamed Ouahbi, set up Issa Diop's stoppage-time equaliser. Morocco's Yassine Bounou saved a penalty from Crysencio Summerville before Ismael Saibari scored the winner in a chaotic shoot-out. Morocco face Canada in the last 16 on Saturday.

Brazil...

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US and Iran are expected to pause military operations as technical negotiations continue on their interim agreement. Tension in the Strait of Hormuz remains, as Tehran insists it alone will oversee security in the waterway, underlining the fragile nature of the deal.

We also look at renewed Iranian attacks in the Gulf as Tehran launched missile and drone strikes on Bahrain and Kuwait. The UAE and Oman have strongly condemned the aggression, while Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned it could tighten enforcement in the strait as a re...

Canada made history in the first knockout game of the tournament, beating South Africa 1-0 in Los Angeles with Stephen Eustsquio scoring in the 92nd minute, driving into the bottom corner.

South Korea's group stage exit has become a political issue at home, with President Lee Jae Myung calling for an investigation. Coach Hong Myung-bo has confirmed he will step down.

Three Arab nations remain in the tournament. Morocco face the Netherlands tomorrow at 5am in Monterrey, 32 years after the two teams first met in a World Cup. Several Morocco players, including Noussair Mazraoui, Sofyan...

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, UN-backed efforts to evacuate stranded seafarers through the Strait of Hormuz are suspended after an attack on a vessel in the Gulf of Oman. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warns that ships must use routes designated by Tehran as efforts continue to restore safe navigation through the vital waterway.

We also look at why Gulf states are not expected to begin reconciliation talks with Iran any time soon. Diplomats tell The National that rebuilding trust after the conflict will take time, despite US efforts to reassure regional allies.

Ecuador produced the shock of the World Cup group stage, beating Germany 2-1 despite falling behind after only two minutes. Nilson Angulo equalised quickly and Gonzalo Plata scored the winner in the 77th minute, sending Ecuador into the knockout stage for only the second time in their history.

The Netherlands won Group F after beating Tunisia 3-1 in Kansas City, with two goals inside seven minutes setting the tone. Tunisia finish with three defeats, 12 goals conceded and the worst defensive record of any team at the tournament. Japan and Sweden both progressed from the same group after...

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the Strait of Hormuz dominates talks as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio meets Gulf foreign ministers in Bahrain. Iran insists vessels must use routes designated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, while Mr Rubio rejects any attempt to impose tolls and reaffirms US security commitments to Gulf allies.

US President Donald Trump says Iran has agreed to the key American demands in negotiations on a permanent peace agreement, but the deal is coming under growing scrutiny. Republican legislators are questioning the administration’s approach, while a new poll sugg...

Morocco are through to the last 32 after a dramatic 4-2 win over Haiti in Atlanta, coming from behind twice before taking control in the second half. Achraf Hakimi and Ismael Saibari both scored, meaning has Saibari netted in all three group games. Morocco finish second in Group C behind Brazil, who beat Scotland 3-0 with Vinicius Junior scoring, meaning he also has a goal in every game so far.

Qatar are out after a 3-1 defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina, finishing bottom of Group B with one point. Fifa also confirmed a five-match ban for Qatar's Assim...