Countries around the world have scrambled to cope with the fallout of the energy shock from the Iran war, imposing measures from fuel export bans, loosening refining standards, and even getting workers to climb stairs instead of taking elevators.

This comes as the Iran war stretches into its third week, and despite U.S. President Donald Trump proclaiming that the U.S. has “won,” the effects of the war, especially on the energy market, continue to be felt.

From the serious…

Naturally, some nationwide measures include trying to have as much fuel in country, so as to avoid having to rely on imported fuel.

On Thursday, China ordered refiners to stop refined fuel exports so as to mitigate potential domestic fuel shortages, according to Reuters.

Sources told the agency that the ban was issued by the National Development and Reform Commission, and includes shipments of gasoline, diesel and aviation fuel.

CNBC attempted to reach the NDRC for comment, but did not receive an immediate reply.

Other major countries are considering or have imposed price caps for fuel products.

On Monday, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said that Tokyo was considering steps ‌to cushion the economic blow from rising fuel costs, including curbing gasoline prices.

Takaichi was quoted by Japanese media on Thursday as saying she plans to cap pump prices at an average of 170 yen ($1.07) per liter nationwide, adding that gasoline prices could potentially hit 200 yen per liter.

Tokyo also conducted a unilateral release of crude from its own stockpiles, without waiting for coordination with other nations.

Japan has been particularly badly hit by the war in Iran, as the world’s third-largest economy needs to import almost all of its energy needs.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung said on Friday the government implemented a petroleum price ceiling.

“We have decided to set a clear price cap on supply prices to curb domestic fuel prices, which are fluctuating wildly due to the unstable international situation,” Lee said.

India also had to make some tough choices. The country told oil refineries to prioritize supplying liquified petroleum gas to the 330 million households that use it as a primary cooking fuel, over 3 million businesses that use commercial LPG cylinders.

… to the quirky

While some countries have tried to secure alternative energy supplies to keep their lights on, others have focused on reducing demand on their grids.

Work-from-home orders came back in some countries after years of companies trying to coax workers back to offices after the pandemic, with Vietnam and Thailand reportedly getting employees to work remotely.

Thailand went a step further, ordering civil servants to take the stairs instead of elevators, reducing their reliance on air conditioning and telling government employees to wear short-sleeved shirts rather than suits.

The Philippines and Pakistan both instituted four-day work weeks for government workers, and Bangladesh has even shifted its calendar, bringing forward its Eid-al-fitr holiday, allowing universities to close early in a bid to save fuel.

… and more practical measures

Over in Europe, Denmark’s energy minister, Lars Aagaard, encouraged citizens to cut back on energy use and drive less as the country leans on its oil reserves in light of skyrocketing oil prices.

“What the Danes should please, please, please do is that if there is any energy consumption that you can do without, if it is not strictly necessary to drive the car, then don’t do it,” he said in an interview with local broadcaster DR, translated by Google.

In the U.K., Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a £53 million ($70.3 million) package on Monday to support vulnerable families hit by soaring energy prices. Starmer also outlined a cap on energy bills, which would save an average household £170, as well as an extension to fuel duty caps till September.

Additionally, motoring groups in the U.K., such as the AA, are telling people to change their driving style to limit fuel use and also avoid “non-essential journeys.”

Other European countries, such as Hungary, have introduced fuel price caps, while Austria and Germany have limited daily price increases, and France has launched inspections to prevent price gouging.

CNBC

The UAE restored airspace and normal flight operations after precautionary closures amid regional tensions. Authorities confirmed missile and drone threats were intercepted, with no casualties reported. Emergency responses addressed fires at key energy sites, while schools shifted online and flexible work was introduced, as officials reassured residents and prioritised national safety.

A look at the morning’s most important developments as the situation in the region unfolds:

UAE reopens airspace after ensuring safety, security

Air traffic operations have returned to normal across the UAE’s airspace, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has announced.

Earlier in the day, UAE authorities temporarily closed the country’s airspace, as an exceptional precautionary measure aimed at ensuring the safety of flights and air crews, and safeguarding the UAE’s territory, amid rapidly evolving regional security developments.

UAE residents told situation safe after emergency alert

Civil Defence teams in the emirate immediately began responding to the incident and are continuing their efforts to bring the fire under control.

Drone strike triggers fire at Shah gas field in Abu Dhabi

Authorities are responding to a fire at the Shah gas field following a drone strike, the Abu Dhabi Media Office reports.

Emergency teams have been deployed to contain the fire and assess the situation. Authorities confirmed that no injuries have been reported so far. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

CBSE cancels Class 12 exams: 10,000 UAE students hit

More than 10,000 Indian expat students in the UAE are awaiting clarity on their Board exam results after the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on Sunday cancelled Class 12 Board examinations for the UAE and six other Middle Eastern countries amid the ongoing US-Israel-Iran war.

UAE keeps schools online; flexible work for caregivers

The Education, Human Development, and Community Development Council has announced three regulatory measures aimed at ensuring the continuity of the educational process across the country while safeguarding the safety of students and the wider educational community, in coordination with the relevant entities within the national education system and the federal government work ecosystem.

In this context, the Ministry of Education announced the continuation of distance learning at the start of the third academic term of the current academic year for a period of two weeks.

Fire hits Fujairah Oil Industry Zone after drone strike

Civil Defence teams respond to incident, continuing efforts to control the fire

The competent authorities in the Emirate of Fujairah confirmed that a fire broke out in the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone as a result of a drone attack, with no injuries reported.

The decision, while widely welcomed as a necessary step to protect student safety, has triggered a wave of anxiety around university admissions, competitive entrance examinations and how the cancelled subjects will be evaluated.

Live updates: Air traffic resumes in UAE; Trump pressures allies

The UAE briefly closed its airspace Tuesday, halting flights as its military responded to incoming attacks from Iran. The move comes after US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, with Israel also targeting Iran-backed militants in Lebanon. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump is urging nations to send warships to keep the Strait of Hormuz open, without specifying which countries might participate. We are bringing you the latest updates on military developments, travel disruptions, and diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation. Read more ➜

UAE media: Defending truth in times of crisis

Modern conflicts are no longer fought only with missiles, drones and military formations. Increasingly, they are waged through narratives, images and digital content designed to shape perceptions and influence public opinion.

Recent developments in the region have once again demonstrated this reality. As the UAE faced blatant Iranian aggression targeting its skies, the country’s Armed Forces responded with remarkable precision and professionalism, intercepting hostile missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles with exceptional efficiency. These heroic efforts not only protected the nation’s sovereignty but also reassured citizens and residents that the country’s security remains firmly safeguarded.

GN

President Donald Trump announced US strikes on Iran’s Kharg Island, hitting military facilities while sparing oil infrastructure, prompting Iran to threaten US-linked oil targets. Meanwhile, UAE air defences intercepted 7 ballistic missiles and 27 UAVs on March 13, with total engagements since the escalation reaching 285 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,567 UAVs. In the UAE, 10 defendants face expedited trials for sharing misleading or AI-generated videos online, while Abu Dhabi authorities arrested 45 individuals for filming incident sites and spreading false information, part of ongoing efforts to curb misinformation and protect national security. Stay informed with the facts as we navigate these challenging times together:

03:55 PM, 14 March 2026

Iran says US and Israeli strikes damaged about 43,000 residential and commercial units

Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani said the damaged structures included 36,469 residential units and 6,179 commercial facilities, according to state-run IRNA news agency.

Iran hasn’t provided any information about military losses and damage.

Mohajerani, meanwhile, said the war has taken a heavy toll on women, with 223 women and girls killed and 2,129 others wounded since Feb. 28. She didn’t provide an overall death toll, but previously authorities have said that 1,230 people have been killed.

03:40 PM, 14 March 2026

IndiGo adjusts Middle East flight schedule

IndiGo will operate 252 weekly flights to and from the Middle East from March 16 to March 28 as it cautiously realigns its network in response to the evolving regional situation. The airline plans 126 weekly flights to Saudi Arabia, 28 to Oman, and 98 to the UAE. IndiGo said it will continue monitoring developments, including geopolitical risks, airspace restrictions, airport constraints, and rising fuel and insurance costs, while maintaining essential connectivity and safe operations across the region.

03:13 PM, 14 March 2026

UAE air defenses deal with 9 ballistic missiles and 33 drones

UAE air defenses dealt with 9 ballistic missiles and 33 drones today. Since the start of the brazen Iranian attacks, UAE air defenses have dealt with 294 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1600 drones. These attacks have resulted in 6 deaths of Emirati, Pakistani, Nepalese, and Bangladeshi nationalities, and 141 cases of minor and moderate injuries of Emirati, Egyptian, Sudanese, Ethiopian, Filipino, Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Azerbaijani, Yemeni, Ugandan, Eritrean, Lebanese, Afghan, Bahraini, Comorian, Turkish, Iraqi, Nepalese, Nigerian, Omani, Jordanian, Palestinian, Ghanaian, Indonesian, and Swedish nationalities. The Ministry of Defense affirms that it is on high alert and readiness to deal with any threats and to firmly confront everything that targets undermining the security of the state, in a manner that ensures the preservation of its sovereignty, security, stability, and protects its interests and national capabilities.

02:44 PM, 14 March 2026

02:31 PM, 14 March 2026

Macron urges Israel to hold ‘direct talks’ with Lebanon

French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday said Lebanon was ready to engage in “direct talks” with Israel and offered to host negotiations in Paris.

“The Lebanese government has signalled its willingness to engage in direct talks with Israel,” he said on X, adding that “all sections of society must be represented in these talks.”

“France is ready to facilitate these talks by hosting them in Paris,” Macron said, adding he had spoken to the president and prime minister of Lebanon, a former French protectorate.

“Everything must be done to prevent Lebanon from descending into chaos,” Macron added.

“Hezbollah must immediately halt its reckless course. Israel must abandon plans for a large-scale offensive and cease its massive air strikes.”

02:23 PM, 14 March 2026

Bahrain Airport flight operations remain suspended

Bahrain International Airport has confirmed that flight operations remain temporarily suspended due to the ongoing closure of Bahraini airspace. Authorities said operations will resume once the airspace reopens safely.

Passengers are advised to contact their airlines for the latest updates before travelling.

02:18 PM, 14 March 2026

UAE warns: Don’t circulate photos or clips from interception sites

The Ministry of Interior has reminded the public not to circulate rumours, photos, or video clips of vital or security sites.

Authorities stressed that promoting national and legal awareness around the prohibition of spreading such content helps maintain security and public safety. They added that security awareness starts with each individual in society, and everyone has a role in protecting the community.

02:09 PM, 14 March 2026

Iranian warship crew partly repatriated from Kochi

 India has repatriated more than 100 non-essential crew members of an Iranian naval vessel that docked at Kochi earlier this month, even as the warship continues to remain berthed at the southern port, here amid escalating hostilities between Iran and the United States.

Officials familiar with the development said the sailors were flown out late on Friday night on a Turkish airline flight after India facilitated their departure on humanitarian grounds.

The repatriated sailors were part of the crew of the Iranian naval ship IRIS Lavan, which had docked at Kochi port the same day the naval confrontation unfolded in the Indian Ocean Region.

Sources said the vessel originally had 183 personnel on board, but with the departure of the non-essential crew members, around 50 sailors have remained with the ship for operational and maintenance requirements.

01:43 PM, 14 March 2026

US advises Americans in Qatar to stay vigilant

The US Department of State is closely monitoring developments in the Middle East and has issued guidance for American citizens in Qatar. Officials emphasise that safety and security remain the top priority.

Departure options: Limited commercial flights and overland routes to Saudi Arabia are available. The Department is coordinating additional flights for those who complete the crisis intake form.

Shelter in place: Americans who choose to stay should secure themselves in safe locations, stock essential supplies, and stay away from windows. Citizens are urged to avoid protests and demonstrations and follow local authority instructions.

Embassy support: Routine consular services are suspended, but the U.S. Embassy in Doha continues to provide assistance through a 24/7 Task Force. Emergency contact: ACSDoha@state.gov or dial 999 locally.

Safety tips: Enroll in STEP for updates, keep family informed, monitor official guidance, and stay alert to surroundings.

Americans are encouraged to stay informed, follow official channels, and take precautions as the situation evolves.

01:40 PM, 14 March 2026

Bahrain intercepts 124 missiles, 203 drones since Feb 28 attacks

The General Command of the Bahrain Defence Force announced that through the unwavering vigilance of its personnel, the BDF’s air defence systems continue to successfully counter successive waves of hostile terrorist Iranian aggression. Since the onset of hostilities, air defences have intercepted and destroyed 121 ballistic missiles and 193 drones targeting the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The General Command expressed its pride in the exceptional combat readiness and vigilance demonstrated by BDF personnel, and commended their sustained operational effectiveness in defending the Kingdom. The performance of Bahrain’s forces continues to inspire confidence that the Kingdom’s skies remain secure.

01:18 PM, 14 March 2026

Iran says museums and historic sites damaged in war

Iran’s cultural heritage and tourism ministry said Saturday at least 56 museums and historic sites across the country have been damaged, as the Middle East war entered its 15th day.

In Tehran, US-Israeli strikes damaged the UNESCO-listed Golestan Palace in the early days of the conflict, local media reported.

The palace complex is one of the oldest sites in the Iranian capital and once served as the residence of the Qajar dynasty.

The ministry said Tehran has recorded the highest number of damaged monuments, with 19 suffering varying levels of harm.

The vast Naghsh-e Jahan Square, a 17th-century architectural jewel in the heart of the central Iranian city of Isfahan, has also been damaged.

In the port of Siraf, in Bushehr province, several houses were hit in the historic quarter, home to many century-old buildings.

UNESCO, the UN’s culture agency, said it was concerned about hundreds of historic sites in Iran, Israel and Lebanon that have been damaged or threatened by the war.

12:50 PM, 14 March 2026

Fire breaks out in Fujairah after drone interception, no injuries

Authorities in the Emirate of Fujairah reported that a fire broke out after debris fell following the interception of an unmanned aerial vehicle by air defence systems, confirming that no injuries were recorded.

12:02 PM, 14 March 2026

Dubai Police warn public about AI images and videos

Dubai Police have cautioned that in the age of artificial intelligence, some images and videos circulating online may appear real but are AI-generated.

Authorities urged the public to always verify sources before sharing content, stressing that awareness is the first line of defense against misinformation.

11:58 AM, 14 March 2026

At least 12 medical workers killed in Lebanon strike

An Israeli strike hit a healthcare center in Borj Qalaouiye, southern Lebanon, killing at least 12 medical staff, the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health said Saturday, according to CNN.

Doctors, nurses, and paramedics were among those killed. One healthcare worker was wounded, and rescue efforts are ongoing to locate any missing personnel.

The ministry noted that the strike followed an earlier attack on paramedics in Al Sawana, another town in southern Lebanon.

Authorities have condemned the attacks, highlighting the impact on critical medical services in the region.

11:55 AM, 14 March 2026

South Korea implements temporary fuel price cap

The Republic of Korea has introduced a temporary fuel price cap this week to help ease cost burdens amid supply concerns linked to the ongoing Middle East crisis, officials said.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the government announced the measure during a task force meeting of ministers responsible for managing market prices, as domestic fuel costs continue to fluctuate.

Under the system, the government will set maximum prices for oil products supplied by South Korean refineries to gas stations and distributors, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources.

11:46 AM, 14 March 2026

Six Iranians from same family killed in strike

The airstrike destroyed a residential building early Saturday in the western city of Eyvan, the judiciary’s official news agency Mizan reported, citing local authorities. The dead included a 6-month-old, it said.

11:36 AM, 14 March 2026

Two Indian LPG carriers allowed transit through Strait of Hormuz

Two Indian flagged vessels carrying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) have been granted transit through the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian authorities. One of them is the Shivalik which as per Vessel traffic monitoring site marinetraffic was last reported to be in the Gulf of Oman and expected to reach its destination by March 21.

On Friday, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways provided an update on the maritime situation in the Gulf region and the steps being taken to ensure the safety of Indian seafarers and vessels. As per the Ministry, 24 Indian-flagged vessels with 668 Indian seafarers are currently operating in the Arabian Gulf. 76 Indian seafarers remain on three vessels east of the Strait of Hormuz.

11:00 AM, 14 March 2026

NCEMA: Stay away from debris after air interceptions

The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) has urged residents to keep a safe distance from any debris or fallen objects resulting from air interceptions and to let authorities assess the situation.

Officials cautioned that some objects may look harmless but can pose serious safety risks. Residents are advised to report locations immediately by calling 999.

NCEMA stressed that following these precautions is essential for public safety and reminded the public that their safety remains a top priority.

10:54 AM, 14 March 2026

Dubai’s Global Village cancels Eid Al Fitr fireworks

Global Village has announced that fireworks displays will not take place during the upcoming Eid Al Fitr holiday.

The organisers said the decision follows government directives issued as part of precautionary safety measures.

Global Village also confirmed that it will remain closed until further notice in line with official guidance.

Visitors are advised to check the official website and social media channels of Global Village for the latest updates, including announcements on reopening.

10:31 AM, 14 March 2026

Airstrike kills two in Baghdad

An airstrike hit a house in Iraq’s capital, Baghdad, early Saturday, killing at least one person, according to a security official and another affiliated with the Iranian-backed armed groups in the country.

The strike in Baghdad’s Karrada district also wounded two people, they said, speaking on condition of anonymity because they weren’t authorised to speak to the press.

In a statement, the Iraqi military condemned the strike as “a blatant violation of all humanitarian values and a disregard for international conventions.”

The strike happened before a missile attack hit the US Embassy compound in Baghdad.

10:20 AM, 14 March 2026

Israeli strike hits north Beirut suburb

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.

10:07 AM, 14 March 2026

No oil infrastructure damage at Kharg: Iranian media

No oil infrastructure was damaged in US strikes on Kharg Island, Iranian media reported on Saturday.

Fars news agency, citing sources on the ground, 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.

According to Fars, the US operation “tried to damage the army’s defences, the Joshan naval base, the airport control tower and the helicopter hangar of the Iran Continental Shelf Oil Company.”

Kharg Island, a scrubby stretch of land in the northern Gulf around 30 kilometres (19 miles) off the Iranian mainland, handles roughly 90 percent of Iran’s crude exports.

09:59 AM, 14 March 2026

Hamas urges Iran to stop ‘targeting neighbouring’ countries

Hamas on Saturday called on Iran to refrain from targeting neighbouring countries, while affirming Tehran’s right to defend itself against Israel and the United States.

“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.

09:48 AM, 14 March 2026

Kuwait commerce ministry reports 36 violations

Kuwait’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry said emergency teams in Farwaniya and Al-Ahmadi governorates conducted field inspections of commercial shops on Friday, recording 36 violations, according to KUNA.

Violations included:

• Selling goods above approved prices
• Failing to comply with price-fixing decisions on food items
• Missing pricing or promotional information
• Not issuing invoices
• Failing to specify the country of origin

A separate notice was issued for mismatches between actual commercial activities and licensed activities. Legal action is being taken against violators. The ministry affirmed it will continue inspection campaigns to control prices and ensure compliance with market regulations.

09:46 AM, 14 March 2026

Saudi Arabia intercepts multiple drones across regions

The Ministry of Defense confirmed a series of drone interceptions across the country, reported the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

Over the past few hours, drones were intercepted and destroyed in the Eastern Region, Al Jouf Region, and the Empty Quarter. In total, five drones were neutralised in the Eastern Region alone.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to maintaining national security and urged the public to follow official safety instructions.

09:42 AM, 14 March 2026

Kuwait air defences shoot down hostile drone

The Kuwait National Guard (KNG) confirmed that its Army Duty Force shot down a hostile UAV on Saturday morning in areas under its jurisdiction, according to spokesman Brig. Jadaan Fadhel.

The move is part of ongoing efforts by the Kuwaiti Armed Forces to protect national security and safeguard vital sites against external threats. Brig. Jadaan emphasised that the KNG maintain the highest levels of preparedness to defend the country’s security and stability.

“The KNG are always ready to sacrifice themselves for the homeland and stand united to protect national security under our wise leadership,” he said.

Brig. Jadaan also urged the public to follow safety instructions issued by competent authorities and cooperate with military and police forces to maintain national stability.

09:39 AM, 14 March 2026

Evacuation alert in Qatar affects only notified residents

The Ministry of Interior clarified that the precautionary evacuation affects only residents in specified areas who received alerts through the National Alert System, according to the Qatar News Agency.

Safe alternative accommodations have been arranged, while some residents have chosen to relocate independently. Those affected can call 40442999 for assistance or enquiries.

The Ministry urged the public to follow official updates and comply with instructions from the competent authorities.

Earlier, the ministry has announced temporary precautionary evacuation measures in specified areas to ensure public safety.

The measure is being carried out by the concerned authorities as a temporary precaution aimed at safeguarding citizens and residents until the threat subsides.

09:37 AM, 14 March 2026

Qatar intercepts missile targeting the country

The Ministry of Defence confirmed the successful interception of a missile aimed at Qatar, according to the Qatar News Agency.

The Ministry of Interior has urged residents to stay clear of any unidentified objects or debris, avoid touching them, and report sightings immediately by calling 999 to ensure public safety.

09:34 AM, 14 March 2026

Israel tells residents in parts of Iran’s Tabriz to leave

The Israeli army told people in an industrial zone in the west of Iran’s northern city of Tabriz to leave ahead of military operations on Saturday.

“Urgent warning to all people located in the industrial area west of Tabriz,” the Israeli military posted on X, adding it would “continue to operate in the area in the coming hours”.

Internet shutdowns in Iran since US-Israeli strikes late last month triggered a war in the Middle East meant that residents were unlikely to be able to access online evacuation warnings.

08:25 AM, 14 March 2026

Trump says Iran ‘totally defeated’, ‘wants a deal’ he won’t accept

US President Donald Trump said Friday that Iran has been “totally defeated” in the US-Israeli military campaign against the country and wanted a deal he would not accept, despite Iranian officials pledging to continue the fight.

“The Fake News Media hates to report how well the United States Military has done against Iran, which is totally defeated and wants a deal – But not a deal that I would accept!” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, without elaborating.

07:47 AM, 14 March 2026

Missile strikes helipad inside US Embassy compound in Iraq

A missile struck a helipad inside the US Embassy compound in Baghdad, two Iraqi security officials said.

There was no immediate comment from the US Embassy in Baghdad. On Friday, the embassy renewed its Level 4 security alert for Iraq, warning that Iran has previously carried out attacks against US citizens, interests and infrastructure, and “may continue to target them.”

The sprawling embassy complex, one of the largest US diplomatic facilities in the world, has been repeatedly targeted by rockets and drones in the past.

07:36 AM, 14 March 2026

Lebanon says Israeli strike in south kills 12 medics

An Israeli strike in southern Lebanon killed a dozen medical staff at a clinic, Lebanese health authorities said Saturday, after Iran-backed Hezbollah’s leader said his group was ready for a long confrontation with Israel.

Lebanon was drawn into the Middle East war last week when the Tehran-backed militant group attacked Israel in response to the killing of Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes.

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.

07:24 AM, 14 March 2026

Bahrain arrests footballer Ahmed Mirza Musa over posts

Bahraini authorities have arrested six people, including international footballer Ahmed Mirza Musa, on charges of misleading public opinion and publishing content deemed to violate the law on social media, the Interior Ministry said.

In a statement, the ministry said the General Directorate of Anti-Corruption and Economic and Electronic Security, represented by the cybercrime unit, had identified and detained the individuals.

Authorities said the arrests followed the filming and publication of videos related to the “effects of the Iranian aggression”, as well as content expressing sympathy with and praise for what it called hostile acts.

07:22 AM, 14 March 2026

Two US Air Force B-1 bombers take off from RAF Fairford 

Fairford is one of two bases that the UK has given the US permission to use for “specific defensive operations into Iran”, British Defence Minister John Healey has said

Two US Air Force B-1 bombers take off from RAF Fairford in England.

Fairford is one of two bases that the UK has given the US permission to use for “specific defensive operations into Iran”, British Defence Minister John Healey has said pic.twitter.com/EB2cRnWYHV

06:57 AM, 14 March 2026

Debris from intercepted projectile hits Dubai building

Dubai Media Office confirmed that debris from a successful interception struck the façade of a building in central Dubai. Authorities said the situation has been fully contained, with no fire or injuries reported.

06:10 AM, 14 March 2026

Abu Dhabi arrests 45 over incident footage, false info

The Criminal Investigation and Investigation Directorate at Abu Dhabi Police has apprehended 45 individuals of various nationalities for filming locations during ongoing incidents and publishing the footage online, alongside circulating inaccurate and misleading information.

Police said such posts could provoke public concern and spread rumours within the community.

06:38 AM, 14 March 2026

Two killed in strikes on Iraq capital  

Explosions rocked Iraq’s capital Baghdad on Saturday 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.

AFP journalists heard blasts in the capital followed by ambulance sirens, with witnesses saying they saw smoke rising from the Arasat neighbourhood, where several Iran-backed groups are known to be present.

Two hours later, an airstrike hit a vehicle in eastern Baghdad that killed “a member of the Hashed al-Shaabi,” another security source said.

A Hashed al-Shaabi official told AFP the member killed belongs to Kataeb Hezbollah.

05:52 AM, 14 March 2026

New explosion heard in Baghdad 

An explosion was heard in Iraq’s capital Baghdad on Saturday, an AFP journalist reported, hours after a missile struck a powerful Iran-backed group in the city.

Residents in the Zayouna district in eastern Baghdad told AFP that the force of the blast shook their houses.

Explosions were heard earlier in Baghdad, which appeared to be a missile strike on a house used by the powerful Iran-backed group Kataeb Hezbollah, killing “a key figure” and wounding two others, according to a security source.

05:49 AM, 14 March 2026

Saudi Arabia intercepts 6 drones

The Ministry of Defence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced that it has intercepted and destroyed six drones.

05:45 AM, 14 March 2026

Qatar intercepts missile attack

The Qatari Ministry of Defence announced today that the Qatar Armed Forces have intercepted a missile attack targeting the State of Qatar, according to the Qatari News Agency.

05:35 AM, 14 March 2026

Bahrain destroys 121 missiles, 193 drones since start of Iranian attacks

The General Command of the Bahrain Defence Force announced that air defence systems continue to successfully counter successive waves of hostile Iranian aggression.

Bahrain News Agency (BNA) reported that since the onset of hostilities, air defences have intercepted and destroyed 121 ballistic missiles and 193 drones targeting the Kingdom of Bahrain.

02:29 AM, 14 March 2026

Iran military threatens US-linked oil targets after Trump says Kharg bombed

Iran’s military has threatened US-linked oil targets after US President Donald Trump said Kharg oil facilities in the Arabian Gulf was bombed.

Kharg Island is Iran’s primary and most crucial crude oil export terminal in the Gulf, handling 90–95% of its crude exports.

Located near the northern end of the Gulf, this critical facility receives oil from major fields via subsea pipelines, storing and loading it onto tankers for international, mostly Asian, markets.

12:38 AM, 14 March 2026

UAE issues safety advisory on debris from aerial interceptions

Abu Dhabi: The UAE’s National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) has urged the public to keep a safe distance from any debris and report sightings immediately to authorities.

In a public safety advisory issued on social media, the authority warned residents not to approach, touch or photograph any objects that may have fallen following aerial interception operations, stressing that specialised teams are responsible for handling such incidents.

12:34 AM, 14 March 2026

US sends 2,500 Marines, one more ship to Mideast

Roughly 2,500 Marines and at least one amphibious assault ship are headed for the Middle East, a US official told The Associated Press.

The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military plans, said elements from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli have been ordered to the Middle East. The move marks a major addition of troops to the region.

12:40 AM, 14 March 2026

Trump vows intense strikes as Iran war heads into third week

President Donald Trump said in an interview aired Friday that American forces would strike Iranian targets “very hard” in the coming days, signalling an intensification of the US-Israeli campaign as the war in the Middle East approaches its third week.

“We’re going to be hitting them very hard over the next week,” Trump told Fox News Radio, adding that he believed Iran’s leadership could eventually be toppled by its own people.

“I really think that’s a big hurdle to climb for people that don’t have weapons,” Trump said. “I think it’s a very big hurdle… It’ll happen, but it probably will be, maybe not immediately.”

GN