Trending Middle East

Trump intervenes to halt Lebanon attacks, Iraq cracks down on corruption and UAE approves weight-loss pill 02.06.2026 3m

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump says Hezbollah and Israel have agreed to stop attacking each other after efforts by Washington to prevent a major Israeli escalation in Beirut. We also look at growing uncertainty around US-Iran diplomacy after Tehran reportedly suspended indirect talks because of Israeli military operations in Lebanon. In Iraq, authorities arrest Deputy Oil Minister Adnan Al Jumaili as Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi launches an anti-corruption body and expands investigations into public sector spending. In the UAE, a national initiative called Naseej aims to reduce the number of clothes going to waste and promote a circular economy. Officials estimate the country generates about 220,000 tonnes of textile waste each year. And the Emirates also approves the pill form of weight-loss drug Wegovy, expanding treatment options for obesity and related health conditions. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

Missiles over Kuwait, US-Iran strikes continue and some UAE rules change 01.06.2026 2m

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the Gulf faces renewed security tensions after Kuwait’s air defences intercept missile and drone threats, forcing flight diversions. We also look at fresh military exchanges around the Strait of Hormuz, where the US says it carried out self-defence strikes on Iranian sites and Tehran claims it responded by attacking a facility linked to American operations. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says troops are moving deeper into Lebanese territory, while Israeli forces report their deepest ground advance in 26 years despite an existing ceasefire. The US also puts forward a new proposal aimed at reducing tensions between Israel and Lebanon, with separate talks held with leaders in Beirut and Jerusalem.And in the UAE, new laws come into force affecting salary payments, the legal age of adulthood, road tolls and parking fees. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

US and Iran reach tentative deal, Lebanon and Israel hold talks and Eid attacks grip Gaza 29.05.2026 3m

In today's episode of Trending Middle East, a tentative agreement has been reached in negotiations between the US and Iran, but it still requires the approval of President Donald Trump. A fourth round of talks between Israel and Lebanon is to take place today at the Pentagon. The disarmament of Hezbollah is expected to be the focus of the discussions. In Gaza, Israeli strikes across the enclave mean the Eid Al Adha holiday has been marred by fear and bloodshed. Former Yemeni president Abdrabu Mansur Hadi, who was forced into exile after the civil war began, has died at the age of 80. And a senior Emirati official says the UAE’s first dedicated Arabic language law aims to strengthen national identity. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

Kuwait responds to missile attacks, US shoots down Iranian drones and flood warnings in Syria and Iraq 28.05.2026 2m

In today's episode of Trending Middle East, Kuwait said its air defences responded to missile and drone attacks on Thursday morning. It came after US forces carried out new strikes on Iranian drones. The Israeli military ordered the mass displacement of all of southern Lebanon, telling residents to move north of the Zahrani River. Iraqi cleric Moqtada Al Sadr said his armed faction, Saraya Al Salam, would integrate into state forces, while Baghdad faces growing pressure to bring other armed groups into its ranks. Authorities in Syria and Iraq have issued evacuation orders along the Euphrates River amid fears of major flooding. And the UAE dirham symbol is currently under review to be added to computer and smartphone keyboards. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

UN condemns Barakah attack, Israel's invasion in Lebanon and Assad-era chemical weapons found 27.05.2026 3m

In today's episode of Trending Middle East, the UN Security Council has condemned the drone strike on the UAE’s Barakah nuclear power plant, calling it a flagrant violation of international law. In Lebanon, Israeli troops have deepened their invasion, advancing beyond the so-called "yellow line” marking their occupied territory. As talks between Tehran and Washington progress, the fate of 24 billion dollars in frozen Iranian funds has become a key sticking point for a possible peace deal. In a breakthrough discovery, the Syrian government says it has found remnants of Bashar Al Assad’s chemical weapons programme, including materials and munitions linked to past gas attacks. And a new report has found that the UAE’s efforts to reduce obesity could boost national productivity by $51 billion. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

US launches 'self-defence' strikes, Iran set to restore internet and UAE hotels predict staycation surge 26.05.2026 2m

In today's episode of Trending Middle East, US forces have carried out what a Central Command spokesman described as self-defence strikes in southern Iran. Israel’s military says it has conducted a wave of attacks across Lebanon, despite a ceasefire that has been in place since April. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered the restoration of international internet access after months of restrictions across the country, although it is unclear when services will resume. More than 1.5 million Muslims have gathered in Makkah for the start of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, with increased security measures put in place by Saudi authorities. In the UAE, hotels are preparing for a surge in staycation bookings over the Eid Al Adha holiday, as the regional war continues to disrupt travel. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

US-Iran talks make progress, Syria set for first parliament meeting and UAE delivers Eid aid to Gaza 25.05.2026 3m

In today's episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump tells negotiators to "take their time" as a deal between America and Iran moves closer. In Bahrain, the High Criminal Court has sentenced nine people to life in prison for collaborating with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. At least 16 people have been killed in a bomb blast on a railway track in Quetta, Pakistan. The explosion on Sunday is the latest in a series ⁠of attacks in Balochistan province, which borders Iran and Afghanistan. Syria’s parliament is set to meet for the first time since the downfall of former president Bashar Al Assad, after elections were held in areas the government recently regained from Kurdish-led fighters. The UAE has delivered about 930 tonnes of aid to families in Gaza for Eid Al Adha, including essential supplies, food and clothing. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

Mediators prepare for US-Iran talks, energy shortages grip Tehran and Dubai launches Dh1.5bn relief package 22.05.2026 3m

In today's episode of Trending Middle East, mediators led by Pakistan are working to narrow differences between Iran and the US before possible direct talks resume next week. Iran could cut power to government offices as the prolonged conflict causes energy shortages. In Helsinki, Finnish President Alexander Stubb proposes a security framework for the Middle East after the conflict that brings together rivals including Israel and Iran. Also in the Finnish capital, the UN’s envoy for Sudan, Pekka Haavisto, says it is time for the country to move from military rule to a civilian government. In the UAE, Dubai announces a Dh1.5 billion ($400 million) incentive package to support business and tourism hit by the Iran war. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

Iran studies US proposal, GCC trade deal with UK and prisoners pardoned for Eid 21.05.2026 3m

In today's episode of Trending Middle East, Tehran receives Washington’s latest proposal to end the war and is reviewing its terms, Iranian media has reported. Iraq announces a new committee in co-ordination with the UAE and Saudi Arabia to investigate recent drone attacks originating from its territory. Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir faced backlash from his own government after taunting detained activists from an intercepted Gaza-bound flotilla. The GCC has struck a multibillion-dollar free-trade agreement with Britain, in a move that is expected to boost investment and help UK firms expand in Gulf markets. And in the UAE, President Sheikh Mohamed has ordered the release of 956 prisoners ahead of Eid Al Adha. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

Barakah attack dubbed 'red line', US Senate advances resolution to end Iran war and Ebola travel bans begin 20.05.2026 2m

In today's episode of Trending Middle East, The UAE tells a UN Security Council meeting that an attack on its Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant is a "red line" that constitutes a dangerous escalation. In Washington, the US Senate has advanced a war powers resolution on Iran that would require President Donald Trump to obtain congressional authorisation to resume the military campaign beyond 60 days. Bahrain and Jordan have imposed 30-day travel bans on visitors from central African countries due to the Ebola outbreak. A car bomb that exploded outside a Defence Ministry building in central Damascus on Tuesday has killed one soldier and wounded several people. In the UAE, a Dh1 billion International Space Co-operation Programme was announced by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, to boost the country’s role in the global space sector. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

Trump pauses Iran attack plans, Hormuz toll proposal unveiled and Iraq probes drone incident 19.05.2026 3m

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump says he delayed planned military strikes on Iran after appeals from Gulf leaders to allow more time for negotiations. Iran has submitted a new 14-point proposal aimed at ending the war and reopening the Strait of Hormuz through talks mediated by Pakistan. Tehran has also unveiled plans for a new authority to manage passage through the strait using a cryptocurrency-based insurance platform, a move opposed by the US and Gulf states. Iraq is investigating an incident in which Saudi Arabia said drones entered its airspace from Iraqi territory on Sunday. In the UAE, authorities have launched plans to train 80,000 government employees in AI systems as part of a broader digital transformation strategy across federal services. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

Barakah drone attack condemned, Trump weighs Iran options and new Gulf logistics route 18.05.2026 3m

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, world leaders condemn a drone attack near the UAE’s Barakah nuclear power plant after authorities intercept two drones and report a fire outside the site’s inner perimeter. Saudi Arabia also intercepts drones entering its airspace from Iraq, as Gulf states warn they reserve the right to respond to threats against their security. In Washington, US President Donald Trump is expected to convene his national security team as tensions with Iran continue to rise and diplomatic and military options remain under discussion. Great Britain deploys a new low-cost anti-drone missile system for RAF operations in the Gulf, aimed at countering Iran-linked drone attacks. And Sharjah and Oman launch a new logistics corridor to ease trade disruption linked to the Strait of Hormuz crisis, while Adnoc expands pipeline capacity through Fujairah. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

Modi in UAE, Trump warns Iran and Lebanon-Israel talks resume 15.05.2026 3m

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump suggests the US could resume military operations against Iran, even as US commanders say Tehran’s offensive capabilities have been heavily weakened. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in the UAE for talks focused on regional security, energy and the impact of the Strait of Hormuz crisis. The UAE condemns the sinking of an Indian-flagged cargo vessel in Omani waters after a suspected drone or missile strike, as disruption to Gulf shipping continues. In Washington, a third round of talks between Lebanon and Israel begins as the ceasefire comes under increasing pressure. And Abu Dhabi confirms plans for Sphere Abu Dhabi, a 1.7 billion dollar entertainment venue expected to open on Yas Island at the end of 2029. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

Trump-Xi talks, Gaza reconstruction concerns and UAE health breakthrough 14.05.2026 3m

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump begins talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, with trade, Iran, energy and the Strait of Hormuz on the agenda. We also look at rising tension in the Gulf after Iran demands the release of four suspected Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps operatives detained by Kuwait after an alleged infiltration attempt. On Gaza, the diplomat overseeing the US-backed peace process warns Hamas is strengthening its grip and obstructing reconstruction efforts as concerns grow over the future of the ceasefire. In the UAE, authorities announce new measures to combat money laundering and terrorism financing in the gold trade, one of the country’s largest economic sectors. And the UAE becomes the first country in the world to approve Baxfendy, a new hypertension treatment described by doctors as a major breakthrough for patients with resistant high blood pressure. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

Trump’s China visit, Hormuz tensions, Gulf states tighten security measures 13.05.2026 3m

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump heads to Beijing for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, with Iran, energy and the Strait of Hormuz expected to dominate discussions. We also look at growing pressure around the strait, as Washington signals it is prepared to maintain a prolonged blockade, while Russia and China oppose a US-backed UN resolution targeting Iran. Across the Gulf, authorities intensify action against alleged Iran-linked operatives, with new sanctions, arrests and terrorism listings announced in the UAE, Bahrain and Kuwait. Emaar founder Mohamed Alabbar says he is considering investments in Syria worth up to 18 billion dollars, as Damascus seeks to rebuild its economy after years of war and sanctions. And a new report says trade and investment ties between the UAE and US have accelerated sharply since Mr Trump’s visit to the Emirates last year. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

South Lebanon faces 'wanton destruction', Houthis expand arsenal and Abu Dhabi launches $15bn projects 12.05.2026 3m

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, analysis reviewed by The National shows nearly 100,000 civilian structures in southern Lebanon have been destroyed or damaged by Israel's campaign of "wanton destruction", with legal experts warning it could amount to a war crime. We also look at an investigation into Houthi weapons networks in Yemen, where advanced missiles and drones linked to Iranian supply systems have been found. Meanwhile, Iran warns it is prepared to respond to any new US attack, while President Donald Trump says the fragile ceasefire is on “massive life support”. In Abu Dhabi, authorities launch Dh55 billion ($14.97 billion) worth of infrastructure and development projects across transport, health care and education. And international health authorities are responding to a hantavirus outbreak linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship after passengers tested positive after travelling on to several countries. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

Trump criticises Iran's response, renewed drone attacks in Gulf and UAE pupils return to school 11.05.2026 3m

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump calls Iran’s response to American proposals for ending the conflict “totally unacceptable” as negotiations continue through Pakistan and tensions remain high around the Strait of Hormuz. We also look at renewed drone attacks across the Gulf, including strikes intercepted by the UAE and an attack on a cargo vessel travelling towards Qatar. In Lebanon, Hezbollah launches rockets at Israeli forces while Israeli air strikes kill dozens, despite ongoing ceasefire efforts and upcoming talks in Washington. In Syria, a former Assad-era general faces trial over allegations of torture and attacks on civilians during the early years of the civil war. And in the UAE, pupils return to classrooms after a week of remote learning introduced because of the Iranian missile threat. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

US and Iran exchange fire near Hormuz, the UAE deals with attacks and Lebanon prepares for talks 08.05.2026 3m

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran comes under renewed strain after both sides exchange fire near the Strait of Hormuz, while Washington waits for Tehran’s response to a proposed framework aimed at ending the conflict. In the UAE, the Ministry of Defence says air defence systems have engaged with further drone and missile threats from Iran this morning. Authorities in the Emirates have established a national committee to document Iranian aggression and damage from attacks. We also look at renewed diplomatic efforts between Lebanon and Israel, with a third round of US-backed talks scheduled to be held in Washington. But that will come after Israel launched its first strike on Beirut since a ceasefire came into force. Meanwhile, Disney says plans for its theme park in Abu Dhabi – its first in the Middle East – remain on track despite the Iran war. And Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, has officially opened the $190.6 million Khor Fakkan Resort. The project is expected to provide a major boost to tourism and investment in the emirate. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

Iran response awaited, Israel hits Beirut and France moves to help reopen Hormuz - Trending 07.05.2026 3m

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the world is awaiting Iran’s response to a US proposal aimed at ending the war, as Washington and Tehran move closer to a possible framework agreement covering sanctions, shipping and Iran’s nuclear programme. We also look at France’s efforts to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz by sending the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier to the region and discussions on a new UN Security Council resolution. In Lebanon, Israel launches strikes on Beirut for the first time in weeks despite a ceasefire, while clashes continue in the south. The UAE rejects allegations by Sudan’s army-led government that it was involved in drone strikes on Khartoum airport, calling the claims deliberate propaganda.And in Abu Dhabi, Tawazun Council and AD Ports Group launch a new defence industrial free zone aimed at expanding the UAE’s manufacturing and defence capabilities. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

US pauses Hormuz escorts, Gulf states push UN action and first Etihad Rail station complete 06.05.2026 2m

In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US pauses its “Project Freedom” escort mission in the Strait of Hormuz while maintaining its naval blockade on Iran, as mediation continues through Pakistan. We also look at a new UN Security Council resolution drafted by the US and Gulf states aimed at protecting shipping routes and removing sea mines from the waterway. In Washington, Secretary of State Marco Rubio says a peace deal between Lebanon and Israel appears achievable, despite continued attacks between Hezbollah and Israeli forces. In the UAE, President Sheikh Mohamed praises the Armed Forces ahead of the 50th anniversary of their unification, following missile and drone attacks linked to the Iran conflict. And in Fujairah, the first completed Etihad Rail passenger station is unveiled ahead of the launch of passenger services later this year. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.