In the southern Lebanese village of Saksakiyeh, people gathered to inspect extensive damage at a building that was targeted in an Israeli bombardment, as civil defence teams worked hard to extenguish fires at the scene.

AFP photos showed the building badly damaged. Take a look:

Iranian World Cup squad en route to Mexico

Iran's national football team took off from Turkey en route to Mexico to take part in this year's World Cup, according to state TV, after its players were granted US visas late the night before.

The team "took off this evening for Mexico to participate in the World Cup after a 15-day training period" in Turkey, Iranian state TV reported. "The national team will arrive in Tijuana after a 20-hour flight."

Lebanese army chief travels to Pakistan

General Rodolphe Haykal, the Lebanese army chief, has departed for Pakistan in response to an invitation from his Pakistani counterpart, Field Marshal Asim Munir, the army said in a statement.

Saudi Arabia offers condolences to families of Lebanese victims

Saudi Arabia has extended its sincere condolences and sympathies to the families of victims of the Israeli attack on a Lebanese Army patrol, expressing its solidarity with Lebanon and its people in the face of anything that threatens the country's security and stability.

The Kingdom strongly condemned "the continued Israeli aggression against the sisterly Republic of Lebanon, reaffirming its complete rejection of any targeting of Lebanon’s sovereignty and its armed forces".

Rene Mouawad Airport

The Rene Mouawad airport will be able to handle about 114,000 passengers in its first year, rising to more than 600,000 by its fourth year, he said.

The rehabilitation work at the new aviation hub is being carried out by the Lebanese company Sky Lounge, which on Saturday posted on its Instagram page a video of a test flight between Beirut airport and Qlayaat airport.

Rene Mouawad Airport, named after a former Lebanese president who was elected in the 1980s, was built by the French army as an airstrip in the 1930s.

It was used for civilian purposes in the 1960s and was bombed by Israel during an earlier war between Israel and Hezbollah in 2006.

Beirut airport has continued to operate despite during the beginning of flare-ups between Israel and Hezbollah on March 2, and an earlier war in 2023 and 2024.

Lebanon to open second international airport within months

Lebanon launched the rehabilitation of its second airport, Rene Mouawad Airport, on Saturday, in preparation for an opening within months.

Lebanon currently has one international airport, in Beirut next to the capital's southern suburbs, a Hezbollah stronghold that has been subjected to heavy Israeli bombardment during successive wars.

The new airport, in the town of Qlayaat in Lebanon's northernmost province of Akkar, near the border with Syria, has been used as a military base by the Lebanese army for decades.

Lebanese Minister of Transport and Public Works Fayez Rasamny inaugurated the airport "after more than fifty years of promises, delays and waiting".

Rehabilitation is due to begin next week and will take at least three months, going through a pilot phase before the airport is put into full service in November 2026, according to local media.

Airline chiefs vs fuel shock, fare test

In Rio De Janeiro, Global airline chiefs opened their annual summit facing a sharper test of the industry's post-pandemic recovery, as the Iran war drives up fuel costs and disrupts airspace while carriers try to cushion the blow with higher fares and tighter capacity.

The annual meeting of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) will conclude on June 8.

IATA, which represents more than 370 airlines accounting for about 85% of global air traffic, had forecast a record $41 billion in net profit this year for the industry before the war. Industry executives and analysts expect that outlook to be lowered at the meeting.

Iran's hostile acts constitute irresponsible escalation: GCC

Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), strongly condemned and denounced the continued Iranian attacks targeting Kuwait and Bahrain.

In a press statement, Albudaiwi said that the Iranian regime’s continued malicious acts targeting infrastructure and civilian facilities demonstrate its intent to undermine security and stability in the region and derail peace efforts.

"These treacherous Iranian hostile acts constitute a serious and irresponsible escalation, a flagrant violation of all international laws and norms, and a direct threat to the security and stability of the region," he added.

The security of Kuwait and Bahrain, he stated, is an integral part of the security of the GCC states, affirming that the GCC countries stand united and steadfast alongside both nations and fully support all measures they take to safeguard their security, protect their sovereignty and preserve the safety of their territories.

Iran condemns 'flagrant ceasefire violation' by US

Iran has condemned the US attack on radar and coastal surveillance facilities in Sirik area and Qeshm island, calling it a "flagrant ceasefire violation.

In a statement, the Iranian Ministry of Foriegn Affairs said that repeated truce violations show the US has no intention of reducing tensions.

"The US will be responsible for any consequences of its illegal actions and any further escalation," it added.

Qatars condemn attack on Lebanese Army patrol

Qatar condemned the Israeli attack that targeted a Lebanese army patrol on the Khardali-Nabatieh road, and resulted in the death of two officers and a soldier.

In a statement by the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Doha said that it considers the attack a dangerous escalation and a blatant violation of the sovereignty of Lebanon, as well as a clear breach of international law.

It called on the international community to "assume its responsibilities by compelling the Israeli occupation authorities to cease their repeated attacks on Lebanon, to respect international conventions and laws, and to fully implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701".

Kuwait engages 7 ballistic missiles

Kuwait's armed forces detected and intercepted seven hostile ballistic missiles inside Kuwaiti airspace, the army said in a statement, with the missiles being intercepted over several residential areas, resulting in the fall of debris and causing material damage

The attack did not result in any injuries, the statement clarified.

The army shared a toll of the hostile projectiles that targeted the country since the beginning of war. Take a look:

Lebanese Army shares photos of fallen personnel

The Lebanese Army issued a statement, mourning two officers and one soldier who were killed by a hostile Israeli strike earlier today.

Photos of the the officers, Wessam Sabrah and Eli Alkhouri, and the soldier, Hussein Abd Elali Ghazal, were shared by the force.

The army clarified that details of the funerals will be published later.

Tehran accuses US of denying visas for some members of World Cup delegation

The US has refused to grant visas to 15 members of Iran's delegation, state television reported.

"Visas have been issued for the national team and the technical staff, and there are 15 members of the administration and management whose visas are problematic and have not been issued by the US," a state television reporter said from the Turkish city of Antalya, where the team is holding a training camp.

The tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the US, Mexico and Canada kicks off this Thursday.

UAE condemns Iranian terrorist attacks on Bahrain, Kuwait

The UAE strongly condemned Iranian terrorist attacks that targeted Bahrain and Kuwait with missiles and drones at dawn today.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said these terrorist attacks constitute a blatant violation of Bahrain's and Kuwait's sovereignty and a threat to their security and stability.

The Ministry expressed the UAE’s full solidarity with Bahrain and Kuwait and its support for all measures taken to preserve their security and stability.

Egypt stands in solidarity with Bahrain, Kuwait following Iranian aggression

Egypt strongly condemned the Iranian attack that targeted Kuwait and Bahrain at dawn today, calling it a blatant violation of sovereignty and a dangerous escalation that threatens the security and stability of the Arabian Gulf region and beyond.

It affirmed full support for Kuwait and Bahrain in confronting the attack, expressing solidarity with the Kuwaiti and Bahraini people and backing all measures taken to protect their security, stability, territory, and vital installations.

Saudi condemns Iran attacks on Bahrain, Kuwait

Saudi Arabia condemned Iran's "brutal attacks" which it termed a "blatant violation" of Bahrain and Kuwait's sovereignty.

These continued Iranian attacks signify further escalation and push the region toward tension and instability, the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

Kuwait responds to 3 shrapnel-related incidents

Kuwait fire forces official spokesperson said that the authority responded at dawn on June 6, to three shrapnel-related cases. Two of them were "fire incidents," while the third was a case of "securing sites", the official said.

Kuwait has urged residents not to approach or handle any fires or objects suspected to be resulting from the fall of shrapnel.

Bahrain says destroyed 3 missiles, several drones from Iran

The Bahrain Defence Force said Iran continues what it described as hostile attacks using missiles and drones targeting civilians in the Kingdom.

It said Bahrain’s air defence systems intercepted and destroyed 3 missiles and several drones.

The statement follows an earlier condemnation from Bahrain’s Foreign Ministry, which described the attacks at dawn as a flagrant violation and reaffirmed the country’s right to self-defence.

It also urged the public to exercise caution, avoid approaching any suspicious objects linked to the attacks, and report them immediately.

Kuwait denounces Iranian attack

Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry strongly condemned repeated Iranian attacks, including the latest at dawn today, calling them a clear threat to civilians and regional stability and ignoring international calls to stop such actions.

It said the attacks violate Kuwait’s sovereignty and break international law, the UN Charter, and UN Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026).

The ministry warned the escalation is pushing the region toward greater tension at a time when international efforts are trying to reduce conflict, adding that the attacks cannot be justified under any circumstances.

It also said Kuwait reserves the right to take all necessary steps to protect its security, territory, and vital facilities.

Israeli military says incident 'under review' after 2 Lebanese officers, 1 soldier killed

Two Lebanese officers and one soldier were killed on Saturday in an Israeli strike on a military vehicle on the Khardali-Nabatieh road in south Lebanon, the Lebanese army said.

Later, the Israeli military said it targeted the vehicle after identifying what it described as a threat to its forces and receiving indications that Hezbollah was preparing to fire on Israeli troops from the area.

It said an initial inquiry showed that two Lebanese army officers and a soldier were inside the vehicle and that the incident was under review.

Iran slams US 'discriminatory treatment' over World Cup visa refusals

Iran on Saturday slammed World Cup host the United States over what it called "discriminatory treatment" in not granting visas for some members of the Iranian delegation to the tournament.

"Why do you not say that visas were denied to a large portion of the managerial and executive staff, technical advisers, and others who are an integral part of any national football team?" the Iranian embassy in Turkey said in a post on X, referring to an earlier announcement by US envoy Tom Barrack that visas had been granted to players.

"You have now escalated the deliberate and discriminatory treatment against Iran's national football team to its highest level," the embassy added.

On Friday, Barrack praised the US embassy in Ankara over its "work processing visas for Iran's national football team" after the head of the Iranian football federation, Mehdi Taj, said on the same day that the Iranian delegation had submitted passports for visas.

But reports on Saturday from the Iranian media, including sports media Varzesh3, said members of the delegation, including Taj along with executive members and analysts, have not been granted visas.

Iran says IAEA is politicising oversight of Tehran's nuclear programme

Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said that the UN nuclear watchdog should avoid turning technical reports into 'tools of political pressure' if it wanted to contribute to a diplomatic solution.

He said that the loss of the agency's oversight at some facilities resulted from the attacks rather than a lack of cooperation by Iran, adding that the International Atomic Energy Agency was using the consequences of US and Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites to create "ambiguity" about Tehran's nuclear programme.

Pakistan's interior minister to travel to Tehran on Saturday, Iranian media reports 

Lebanese President strongly condemns Israeli attack

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned an Israeli strike that targeted a Lebanese Army patrol on Saturday, killing two officers and a soldier.

He described the attack as a blatant violation of Lebanese sovereignty and international law, saying it comes amid continued escalation that threatens security and stability in southern Lebanon despite Beirut's efforts in negotiations with Washington to end the ongoing Israeli attacks.

Aoun extended his condolences to the Lebanese Army and the families of the victims, praising the sacrifices of the fallen servicemen in defending the country and its sovereignty.

Kuwait resumes air traffic after 2-hour closure following Iran attack

According to the state news agency, Kuwait briefly closed its airspace from 4.15am to 6.15am as a precaution following an Iranian missile and drone attack before reopening it after the situation stabilised.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation said emergency procedures were activated in coordination with the relevant authorities to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and aviation facilities.

During the closure, 11 flights operated by Kuwait Airways and Jazeera Airways were diverted to nearby airports as a precaution.

Bahrain has issued a statement following reported Iranian attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait at dawn today, denouncing the attacks.

Bahrain calls for freedom of navigation in Hormuz 

The Bahraini Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called on Iran to immediately halt what it described as unjustified attacks and to move toward peace.

It urged the full and unrestricted opening of the Strait of Hormuz, in line with international law guaranteeing freedom of navigation, and called for compliance with relevant UN resolutions.

It also demanded the disclosure of naval mine locations and cooperation in their removal, as well as the establishment of a safe humanitarian corridor to ensure the passage of civilian vessels and the safe return of more than 20,000 stranded seafarers.

It further stressed that defending Bahrain's sovereignty, security, stability, and the protection of its people is a red line on which the country will not compromise.

"The choice now lies with those launching missiles and drones today: either engage in the path of peace and cooperation, or condemn themselves to isolation and marginalisation," it added.

The statement was issued following reported attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait at dawn today.

Bahrain's security is 'red line' that cannot be compromised 

Bahrain reaffirmed its commitment to peace and stability in the region, stressing that restraint should not be mistaken for tolerance.

It underlined that the defence of its sovereignty, security, stability, and people remains a red line that cannot be compromised, adding that it will take all legitimate measures to safeguard its security, with confidence in the support of its allies.

The Bahraini Foreign Ministry issued a statement following reported Iranian attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait at dawn today.

Bahrain said the choice now lies with those launching missiles and drones, either to pursue a path of peace and cooperation or face isolation and marginalisation.

Bahrain says targeted by Iran, denounces 'blatant aggression'

Bahrain’s Foreign Ministry on Saturday denounced Iranian attacks against its territory and neighbouring Kuwait, saying the two Gulf states intercepted seven missiles launched at dawn.

It described the incident as a 'blatant aggression' and a flagrant violation of the sovereignty of both countries.

The Ministry warned that such actions threaten the security and stability of the Arabian Gulf region.

US forces said early Saturday they intercepted incoming missiles headed toward the region, with no reports of casualties or damage.

Lebanese army says soldiers, officer killed in Israeli strike on military vehicle

Lebanon's army said Saturday that several soldiers had been killed in an Israeli strike on a vehicle in the south, days after the two countries announced a conditional truce following talks in the United States.

"A number of military personnel, including an officer, were martyred in a barbaric Israeli raid targeting a military vehicle on the Khardali–Nabatieh road," the army said in a statement posted to X.

Under the conditional truce, Hezbollah is supposed to stop its attacks against Israel and withdraw from near the border, while the Lebanese army will deploy to new "pilot zones" in the area where it would exercise exclusive control.

Iran adviser says negotiations at deadlock, demands $24billion in frozen assets

“The negotiations are at a deadlock, and Trump must break this deadlock,” Mohsen Rezaei, military adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, told CNN in an exclusive interview on Friday.

Rezaei also called for the release of $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets, describing it as an important step toward rebuilding trust.

He said that if Trump is serious about negotiations, unfreezing the funds would serve as a test of confidence in reaching an agreement, stressing that the money belongs to Iran.

Efforts to turn the truce into a lasting settlement have repeatedly stalled amid continued retaliatory strikes by both sides.

Lebanon says Israeli strike kills 5 including woman, paramedic

Lebanon's health ministry said an Israeli strike in the south on Friday killed five people, including a woman and an emergency worker, despite ceasefire talks, condemning "the targeting of paramedics carrying out rescue operations".

"The Israeli enemy strike on the town of Zebdine in the Nabatieh district killed five people, including a woman and a paramedic from the Risala Association, and wounded two people, including a paramedic," a ministry statement said, referring to emergency responders affiliated with Hezbollah ally the Amal movement.

IAEA’s Grossi praises UAE Barakah power plant team for May 17 attack response

During a visit to the UAE, Grossi met the team that responded to the May 17 drone strike at the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, praising their professionalism, skill, and day-to-day readiness in upholding nuclear safety standards and noting that a young woman was among those involved in the response.

Grossi strongly condemned attacks on nuclear infrastructure, warning that such actions pose serious risks.

He said that any attack on a nuclear power plant is 'simply unacceptable', adding that international law, IAEA resolutions, and long-standing global norms clearly prohibit such actions.

Watch: Trump calls Iran conflict 'practice', downplays war

US President Donald Trump referred to the ongoing Iran conflict as “not really a war,” describing it instead as a “military conflict” and a “practice,” during a campaign event in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin on Friday, June 2.

“The situation with Iran seems to be going quite well,” Trump said, addressing a press pool on Friday upon his arrival in Wisconsin for a scheduled public event, as shared by the White House, as he downplayed the tensions.

He also appeared to minimise the scale and intensity of the ongoing hostilities, despite continued exchanges involving Iranian forces, US assets, and Israeli military formations.

“It’s really not much of a war,” the US president said, characterising the high-stakes confrontation in more casual terms, before adding, “But it’s a military conflict. It’s practice.”

Trump says Iran has '22 per cent' of missiles left

Iran still has "21, 22 per cent" of its missiles left, Trump said Friday, in a week in which Tehran fired dozens of them toward regional neighbours, despite a sputtering ceasefire.

"They still have capacity. They have some missiles; they have some drones. I would say, percentage-wise, maybe 21, 22 per cent of their missiles," Trump told NBC News in an interview.

That figure for Iran's missile stockpile is higher than the one of 18 per cent Trump gave in May. He has often claimed to have completely destroyed Iran's war-fighting capacity. 

US confirms Iranian footballers granted visas for World Cup

Players from Iran's World Cup team have been granted visas to enter the United States, Reuters reported on Friday.

A White House official confirmed the news to Reuters, offering that the players had received their visas overnight, shortly after Iranian ambassador to Mexico Abolfazl Pasandideh had said they didn't have them late Thursday.

Just a couple of weeks ago, Iran moved their base of operations to Tijuana, Mexico, from their original plan of Arizona, due to concerns over the continued conflict between both countries.

"Iran's participation in the World Cup, even on the soil of what is seen as its enemy, shows that Iran seeks peace," Pasandideh said.

US energy secretary says lower gas prices will ultimately take resolution with Iran

The US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said on Friday that lowering pump prices will ultimately take a resolution with Iran to get more oil flowing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Asked what it will take to lower soaring gas prices for all Americans, Wright said it would take a deal with Iran.

"The pathway to bring gasoline and diesel prices back down is to get more oil flowing through the Strait of Hormuz," he said in an interview. "Ultimately that's going to be a resolution with Iran."

He added that the higher gas prices were justified by the military effort to remove Iran as a nuclear threat.

"We're paying extra, but we're solving a major geopolitical challenge, a major threat to national security, a major threat to that whole region of the world," Wright said. "That's a cost that we're getting something for."

IRGC warns US of consequences of Hormuz Strait closure to oil, gas exports if US ‘mischief’ continues

US approves $2billion anti-drone weapons sale to Kuwait

The US announced Friday its approval of a $1.98 billion arms sale to Kuwait, one of the countries in the region hit by Iranian strikes during the conflict.

In a statement, the US State Department said it would allow purchases of counter-drone technology from defence company Anduril, which was founded by a supporter of Trump.

Earlier this week, Kuwait officials "condemned Iranian aggression" when a drone strike on its international airport killed one person and injured 63 others. 

Explosions heard near Kuwait airport and in Bahrain: AFP

Multiple explosions were heard in areas near Kuwait International Airport, reported AFP's correspondent in Kuwait, whose military announced it was responding to "hostile" missile and drone attacks.

In Bahrain's capital, Manama, an AFP correspondent there reported hearing explosions and interceptions as air raid alerts rang out.

Iran FM urges Lebanon president to save country from 'real foe' 

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Saturday rejected remarks by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun that Lebanon was a bargaining chip for Tehran.

Aoun said on Friday that Iran was using Lebanon as a bargaining chip in its negotiations with the United States and that Lebanese people were paying the price for Iran's interests.

"Had Lebanon been a bargaining chip for Iran, we'd have a deal long ago," Araghchi posted on X. "Save Lebanon from your real foe, Mr President."

US says Iranian claims of damaging US 5th fleet headquarters are false

Kuwait responds to early morning drone and missile threats

Kuwaiti air defence systems were responding to hostile missile and drone attacks in the early hours of the morning.

The military said that any sounds of explosions are the result of air defence systems intercepting the incoming threats and urged the public to follow all safety and security instructions issued by the relevant authorities.

US military says Iran launched 7 missiles at Kuwait, Bahrain

US military officials said Iran launched seven ballistic missiles toward neighbouring Kuwait and Bahrain on Friday, hours after reporting that four Iranian “one-way attack” drones had been intercepted.

In a statement posted to X, US Central Command said it intercepted six of the missiles Iran launched, and the seventh "did not reach its intended target".

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it targeted US bases with missiles in retaliation for US strikes and also fired on four tankers attempting to cross the Strait without permission.

According to Centcom, the attack drones posed an immediate threat to regional maritime traffic, prompting US forces to strike Iranian coastal surveillance radar sites in Goruk and on Qeshm Island to prevent further maritime attacks.

The statement said no US personnel were harmed in the incident.

Day 60 of ceasefire: where we stand

It has been two months since the ceasefire began in this regional conflict, yet no formal agreement has been reached, as tensions and diplomatic activity continue across the region.

Iran’s navy claimed it fired warning shots at US destroyers in the Gulf of Oman, but US Central Command denied the allegation.

Meanwhile, reports emerged that Oman’s Mina al Fahal terminal had suspended oil loading following an explosion near its mooring berths, although Petroleum Development Oman later said operations were continuing normally.

The US also announced new Iran-related sanctions targeting an alleged network accused of disguising Iranian LPG exports as Omani shipments to bypass restrictions.

Separately, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner visited a national laboratory in Tennessee to consult nuclear experts ahead of potential talks with Iran.

Families are often navigating everyday decisions around their children’s training routines, including considerations linked to heat, hydration, and post-activity recovery.

While professional coaches argue that structured exposure can help children adapt and grow stronger physically, some parents remain uneasy about the intensity of midday or early afternoon training sessions.

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The debate reflects a wider concern in the UAE’s sporting communities as humidity and heat index levels rise.

Balancing training and heat resilience

For some coaches, complete avoidance of outdoor sport during summer months is not the answer. They believe controlled exposure, when properly managed, is key to long-term athletic development.

“While caution around heat and hydration is important, children are more resilient than we often assume,” said Alexei Volkov (name changed upon request), a tennis coach with experience training junior athletes in the country.

“With proper scheduling, gradual conditioning, and supervision, training during early morning or late afternoon hours is entirely manageable. Avoiding outdoor activity altogether during warmer periods can limit a child’s physical development and their ability to adapt to real match conditions. The key is not restriction, but structured exposure and sensible management of intensity.”

For parents like Moldovan resident Inga Popescu, however, lived experience on the sidelines tells a more cautious story.

“My son sometimes does football training during the hottest parts of the day, which makes me a bit uneasy. My husband used to do boot camps when he was younger, so he feels that as long as children are well-hydrated and have electrolytes, it’s fine for them to play either before 12pm or after 4pm.”

But concern builds as she watches her son struggle after sessions.

“But I’m not fully convinced. The summer heat here in the Middle East can be really intense, and I’ve noticed my son gets very tired after just an hour, especially from May onwards. He comes back completely drained, and it worries me to see how much it takes out of him.”

 She added that while she understands her husband’s confidence comes from his own fitness background, she worries that children don’t regulate heat the same way adults do — especially in the UAE’s summer conditions, “where humidity and high temperatures can make even short sessions feel exhausting and can lead to sunburns and excessive tanning. Even if he drinks enough fluids, I can see it in his face when he comes back,” she said. “He looks drained, and it takes him a long time to recover.”

The couple often disagrees on timing and intensity, with differing interpretations of what is “safe” training.

“I also feel concerned that my son may try to push through fatigue without recognising warning signs like overheating or dehydration.”

Early warning signs often missed

Meanwhile, doctors in the UAE highlight that what looks like normal fatigue in children can sometimes be an early indicator of heat stress.

Dr Mamata Bothra, specialist pediatrics and neonatologist, International Modern Hospital Dubai said, “In the UAE, many children remain physically active outdoors throughout the year, including during periods of intense heat and humidity. While sports are extremely important for a child’s physical and mental wellbeing, parents and coaches must recognise that children are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses than adults because their bodies do not regulate temperature as efficiently.”

Subtle behavioural changes are often the first red flags.

“One of the most commonly overlooked early warning signs of heat stress in children — particularly in the age group between 6 and 16 years old — is unusual fatigue or a sudden drop in performance during training. Many parents and coaches may assume the child is simply tired or unmotivated, when in reality the body may already be struggling to cope with overheating,” added Bothra.

In general, medics reiterate outdoor sports activities should be rescheduled, reconsidered, or modified when “temperatures exceed 35°C, particularly if humidity levels are above 60 per cent. During UAE summer months, afternoon outdoor training sessions can become especially risky. Whenever possible, sports activities should be moved to early morning or after sunset hours.”

Healthcare professionals stress that during sports activities, children should take regular hydration breaks every 15 to 20 minutes even if they do not feel thirsty. Coaches should ensure shaded rest periods are built into training sessions and should monitor children closely for any behavioural or physical changes.

She added, “Cooling towels, mist sprays, and access to air-conditioned recovery areas can also help significantly. After exercise, rehydration remains essential. Parents should continue encouraging water and electrolyte intake, monitor urine colour for signs of dehydration, and ensure children recover adequately before returning to strenuous activity.”

What parents should watch for

Pediatricians emphasised that parents should look beyond performance and focus on behavioural cues during sport.

Dr Naveen Raju, Specialist Pediatrician, LLH Hospital, Musaffah said, “In children aged 5 to 10 years, the commonly missed signs are when the child becomes quiet, irritable, or unusually tired. They may complain of tummy ache or headache. Some children may become clumsy, slow down, or ask for frequent breaks.”

Older children may try to push through symptoms unnoticed.

“In children aged 11 to 17 years, the warning signs include headache, dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps, confusion, and poor concentration. Some children may hide symptoms and try to push through. A child may continue playing football because they are not dizzy yet, but can suddenly develop muscle cramps and faint after that.”

Clear thresholds for stopping activity are essential.

“Activity should be stopped immediately and medical help should be sought if the child has vomiting, fainting, confusion, unsteady walking, or stops sweating in extreme heat,” added Raju.

US President Donald Trump referred to the ongoing Iran conflict as “not really a war,” describing it instead as a “military conflict” and a “practice,” during a campaign event in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin on Friday, June 2.

Speaking at a roundtable with farmers, Trump said the United States had made progress in dealing with Iran, claiming efforts had “largely finished” a situation he described as a potential nuclear threat.

“We were having record stuff and then we had to put out a fire. We had to extinguish a nuclear weapon… this was going to be a very capable country that was going to have a massive nuclear presence. And we weren’t gonna let that happen,” he said, adding that the outcome was either already resolved or close to completion.

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He also suggested that any resolution would come “one way or the other,” adding it could be through a formal agreement or a more difficult path, while hinting at ongoing negotiations with Tehran.

“As you know with Iran, they have no navy… four days 159 ships at the bottom of the sea. Not that we like that but that’s the way it is. And the blockade is unbelievable,” Trump said.

Watch the video below, as posted by the White House:

The US president also pointed to recent economic data, saying job numbers had exceeded expectations despite the conflict.

"I'm delighted to report that for third month in a row, the jobs numbers... smashed all expectations by actually three times," he said, adding that 172,000 jobs were created in May.

Trump used the event to urge voters to support Republicans ahead of upcoming elections, warning of economic consequences if Democrats return to power.

The Wisconsin stop is part of a broader campaign effort focused on rural voters, with Trump linking energy prices, agriculture costs, and international tensions to domestic economic concerns.

Bahrain said "security is not built with missiles or drones" as it confirmed being targeted by fresh Iranian attacks. Tehran also launched missiles towards Kuwait.

"Patience does not equate to weakness", the Bahraini Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, as the country stressed it was committed to peace and stability in the region. However, defending sovereignty and security, and protecting its people is a "red line that will not be compromised," Bahrain warned.

These remarks come in a statement on Saturday by Bahrain's Mofa, carried by Bahrain's News Agency, condemning the seven Iranian ballistic missiles launched towards Kuwait and Bahrain, which were "successfully intercepted".

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"Security is not built with missiles and drones, nor is stability maintained by planting mines", Bahrain said, urging Iran to disclose the locations of sea mines and cooperate in removing them.

The country also called on Iran to "immediately cease unjustified attacks and embrace peace."

The country called the fresh Iranian attacks a "blatant aggression" which violates international laws, and a threat to the security and stability of the Arabian Gulf region.

Bahrain said it remains "confident in the support of its brothers and allies" as it takes all legitimate measures to safeguard its security.

With freedom of maritime navigation guaranteed by international law, Iran must comply with relevant Security Council resolutions and "fully open the Strait of Hormuz without restriction and without fees," the statement read.

With over 20,000 sailors stranded, Bahrain called on Iran to open a safe humanitarian corridor that guarantees the safe passage of civilian ships, and allow sailors' departure and safe return to their families.

This is not a one-off. It is a pattern that repeats across every season, every long weekend, and every school break.

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'The road trip that changes you'

Simone Maselli, a business professional and outdoor enthusiast, describes the drive as transformative. "A road trip to Oman feels like a quest. One minute you are driving through rocky mountains, the next you are on top of a 2,300-metre mountain city. This road trip changes you."

Rawan Abudagga, a general dentist, agrees. "The road trip is part of the adventure itself. The memories start long before you reach your destination."

Alaa Hussein, who leads outdoor adventure groups across Oman year-round, says the draw is simple. "Oman is a hidden gem. Natural wadis filled with water, high mountains where you can camp even during summer."

That hospitality is what stays with every visitor. "Omanis are an amazing, humble nation," said Alaa. "They offer help without expecting anything in return." Even when a car battery exploded under extreme heat, recalled Maselli, locals found a solution without hesitation.

UAE residents account for more than 55 per cent of all visitors to Oman, according to the National Centre for Statistics and Information. In 2024, over one million Emiratis crossed into the Sultanate, making the UAE the top source market for Omani tourism.

In July 2025, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development committed Dh764.5 million to an integrated tourism complex in Salalah. What residents feel on every road trip, Abu Dhabi is now building into stone.

Oman at a glance

When to go

• October to March: Ideal weather for wadis, hiking, and cities.

• June to September: Salalah's khareef season, green landscapes and mist

• March to April: Rose harvest season at Jabal Al Akhdar

Where to go

• Jabal Al Akhdar: Mountain escape at 2,000 metres, cool even in summer.

• Jabal Shams: Oman's highest peak, home to the "Grand Canyon of Oman"

• Salalah: Transforms into lush greenery during khareef

• Nizwa: Ancient fort and one of the oldest souqs in the region Musandam: dramatic fjords just a short drive from the UAE border

Wadis not to miss

• Wadi Bani Khalid: Crystal-clear pools, date palms, and easy swimming

• Wadi Shab: Boat crossing followed by a hike through limestone ravines.

• Wadi Tiwi: Turquoise water along a stunning coastal road Bimmah.

• Sinkhole: Natural pool of fresh and saltwater, 120km from Muscat

What to eat

Shuwa: Slow-cooked spiced lamb buried underground, the signature dish of every celebration

Omani halwa: Sweet rosewater and saffron dessert, served with kahwa at every welcome

Carrying paper cockroach masks and pamphlets, the protesters called for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan who has faced criticism over the irregularities, including question paper leaks and technical glitches.

"We want accountability from the government," Utkarsh Raj, a medical college aspirant, told AFP at the protest site, which was watched closely by police officers in riot gear.

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"How is it that exam papers get leaked in this country? How is this right?" added Raj, 16.

Protesters were led by Abhijeet Dipke, a 30-year-old Boston University graduate who arrived in New Delhi from the United States on Saturday.

His parody party — "Cockroach Janta Party" (CJP), a play on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) — has won millions of followers on social media since its launch last month.

"The youth of the country will no longer fear anyone, they will fight," Dipke, a former political communications strategist for the opposition Aam Aadmi Party, told supporters at the rally.

"Cockroaches don't ever fear, they never die either," said Dipke, as others shouted in unison.

The movement emerged after India's Chief Justice Surya Kant reportedly likened young people who criticised the government to "cockroaches" and "parasites" during a court hearing, sparking outrage among the youth. Kant later said his comments were taken out of context.

CJP's popularity has soared, using the slogan "a political front for the youth, by the youth, for the youth".

'No credibility'

Protesters said young people were justifiably angry.

"India deserves better administration of such crucial exams by the government," said 20-year-old Sarthak, who gave only one name.

Last month, authorities scrapped the nationwide medical college entrance exam after investigators uncovered a question paper leak.

Indian media reported suicides of teenagers following the fiasco over the National Eligibility Entrance Test (Neet), one of the country's most competitive exams.

That came on top of another scandal related to online marking system in tests taken by nearly two million high school students.

"Young people have to give these exams and they can't have a situation where these exam systems have no credibility left," said Sapan Gyan, 52, who accompanied his sons to the protest.

The CJP's Instagram handle has over 22 million followers — more than double the BJP's nine million followers on the same site, as well as the main opposition Congress Party's 13 million.

Despite rapid economic growth, millions of people in the world's most populous nation still struggle to find stable and well-paying jobs, fuelling discontent among the youth.

Youth unemployment in the country, typically covering people aged 15 to 24, was estimated at around 16 percent, according to the International Labour Organisation.

In recent years, some of India's neighbours including Bangladesh and Nepal have witnessed youth-led movements against perceived corruption and political apathy that toppled incumbent governments.

Sooryavanshi, 15, is fresh off a breakout campaign in the Indian Premier League in which he topped the scoring charts with 776 runs in 16 matches, while also breaking Chris Gayle's record for most sixes in a season.

His performances for the Rajasthan Royals made him the first player in IPL history to be named both the Most Valuable Player (MVP) and the Best Emerging Player, with many tipping him for a spot in the senior Twenty20 International side.

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Should Sooryavanshi go on to make his debut against either Ireland or England, he would become the youngest player to represent an Indian men's senior team, bettering great Sachin Tendulkar, who made his debut aged 16.

"We've seen what he can do, towards playoffs, almost single-handedly carried Rajasthan Royals," selection panel chairman Ajit Agarkar told reporters.

"Not just this season, had a great start and to back-it up in a competition that is as competitive and high-pressure, he's a game-changer. We've got high hopes of him and he has picked himself."

Agarkar added that Iyer, who replaces Suryakumar Yadav, had been appointed captain after guiding Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to the Indian Premier League title in 2024, while also leading other franchises in the league.

Iyer last played a T20I in 2023.

"Led a team to (IPL) title, his own performances been good. He was close to being part of the World Cup squad, in my opinion was a 'stand-out candidate'," Agarkar added.

India play Ireland in two T20Is later this month, before a five-match series against England in July.

The BCCI also named their squad for this year's men's cricket competition at the Asian Games in Japan, which includes veteran bowler Jasprit Bumrah.

The Asian Games men's competition will begin on September 24, with the final scheduled for October 3.

T20I Squad for Ireland and England series: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma, Nitish Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakravarthy, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Squad for Asian Games: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Tilak Varma, Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi urged Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, who had criticised Tehran for interfering in his country, to save Lebanon from its "real foe".

"Based on Mr. Aoun's comments, one would think it's Iran that has occupied 1/5 of Lebanon, displaced 1/4 of Lebanese and [is] bombing his country on daily basis... Save Lebanon from your real foe, Mr. President," Araghchi wrote on X.

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Aoun said on Friday that Iran was using Lebanon as a bargaining chip in its negotiations with the United States and that Lebanese people were paying the price for Iran's interests.

"Had Lebanon been bargaining chip for Iran, we'd have a deal long ago," Araghchi posted on X.

US forces struck Iranian coastal radar sites on Saturday after shooting down drones launched by Iran toward the Strait of Hormuz, the US military said, in the latest escalation complicating efforts to end the war between the two countries.

The US military believes the four Iranian drones were targeting regional maritime traffic, a US official told Reuters. US Central Command said on X that the US then struck Iran's surveillance sites in Goruk and Qeshm Island, which are both on the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps said it had targeted US bases in the region with missiles in retaliation for US strikes and fired on four tankers attempting to cross the strait without its permission.

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Kuwaiti air defences were ​intercepting missile and drone attacks of undisclosed origin, state media reported, while in Bahrain sirens sounded and residents were urged to seek shelter. Iran said it had hit US bases in both countries with ballistic missiles but the US military said six missiles were intercepted and a seventh did not reach its target.

The US and Iran have been engaged in largely indirect negotiations to secure an interim deal to halt the three-month-old war that would leave issues including Iran's nuclear programme to further negotiations.

But amid periodic skirmishes, a deal has remained elusive.

As part of any agreement, Tehran wants access to billions of dollars in oil revenue, waivers on sanctions on crude exports, the lifting of a US blockade on its ports and leverage over the strait. Iran has effectively blocked the strait, where about a fifth of the world's oil transited before the war.

US President Donald Trump is facing mounting domestic political pressure due to rising gas prices to bring the unpopular war to an end. He told NBC that while most of Iran's drone and missile manufacturing facilities had been destroyed, the Iranians still have access to about a fifth of their missiles.

"They have some missiles, they have some drones. I would say percentage wise, maybe 21 to 22 per cent of their missiles. It's a lot of missiles, but it's not what it was when we first attacked," Trump told NBC News' "Meet the Press" program, according to excerpts released by the network on Friday.

When asked why Iran’s leaders — if as desperate as he has portrayed them — were not more inclined to strike a deal, Trump said:

"Because they are strong. They're proud. There are things they never thought they'd be doing that they're going to have to do, they've got no choice, and it takes a little while."

After the US and Israel launched the war against Iran on February 28, Tehran fired missiles and drones against Gulf states and largely stopped shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

The conflict has driven up oil prices and disrupted supply chains for other products. The UN World Food Programme said on Friday that it was pushing millions of people closer to hunger due to rising fuel and transport costs.

Mohsen Rezaei, an adviser to Iran's supreme leader, told CNN on Friday that a peace deal hinged on the Trump administration unfreezing $24 billion in Iranian assets, and warned that the US would "enter into a dark corridor" if it resumed attacks.

A message on the website reads: “In accordance with local laws and regulations, access to our services is restricted in certain locations. Play971 is accessible within the UAE only, except Dubai. Access is not available in Dubai or outside the UAE.”

A spokesperson for the company confirmed this to Khaleej Times. “Play971's services are available only in jurisdictions where use is permitted under applicable local provisions,” said Philippa Bowland, Commercial Director for iGaming at Play971. “Platform availability is determined at the emirate level. At present, our service is live in a number of emirates under their respective local regulatory framework.”

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She added that for the future, the company “remains open to opportunities” and continues to engage within the appropriate channels. “However, any expansion is subject to local frameworks and regulatory approvals,” she said.

Geoblocking

The website has a geoblocking system which does not allow Dubai residents or anyone outside the UAE to register to play on the platform. It further clarified that those attempting to access the site from a restricted location will receive an error message and may not be able to view or use the platform until they are physically located in a permitted area.

Khaleej Times can confirm that attempts to access the website from Dubai were restricted.

However, residents of Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah confirmed they were able to access the site.

What about VPNs?

Those attempting to access the website using a VPN will not be able to do so. According to Play971, the user’s device must share the precise location. Those wanting to play on the website must disable any VPN or proxy services and ensure location services are enabled on the device.

Those still unable to access the website should allow their browser to access their location when prompted and clear their browser cache and cookies. Once completed, they can refresh the page and try again.

Ahead of Fifa World Cup

Play971 has launched access for UAE football fans to place wagers on upcoming international matches; this has come at a time when football lovers worldwide prepares to watch the World Cup. It will be the first time that UAE-based football fans will legally be able to place wagers on their favourite teams.

The bets for the Fifa games as well as NBA basketball games are already live on the website. Players will be able to place wagers on various aspects of the game including the number of goals scored, the two halves of the match and even the corners awarded in a game.

In addition to football, players will also be able to place wagers on a wide variety of games including horse racing, cricket, tennis, futsal, ice hockey and baseball. The platform also includes casino-style games and live dealer games streamed from a studio licensed by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in Abu Dhabi.

Players must be at least 21 years old to be able to access the website. To register, each resident must submit their Emirates ID as well as their phone number and address.

While flights, accommodation and visa applications often take priority, many travellers fail to check whether their destination requires specific vaccines or health precautions. Doctors say this oversight can lead to unnecessary stress, disrupted travel plans and increased exposure to preventable illnesses.

According to UAE-based physicians, many travellers only become aware of vaccination requirements when they begin the visa process, receive travel documents or are days away from departure.

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Dr Malaz Yabrodi, internal medicine specialist at Medcare Shaikh Saqr Al Qasimi Hospital Sharjah, said many people wrongly assume that routine vaccinations provide sufficient protection for every destination.

“One of the most common mistakes travellers make is assuming that routine vaccinations are sufficient for every destination. Many people focus on booking flights and accommodation, while overlooking travel health requirements until a very late stage in the process.”

He noted that travellers often discover vaccination recommendations or requirements only after starting visa applications or finalising travel arrangements.

“Travellers may also overlook the importance of booster doses or fail to seek advice tailored to their age, medical history, and destination-specific risks.

“In the UAE, where residents travel widely during peak holiday periods, advance planning is especially important,” added Yabrodi.

Hajj, Umrah and destination-specific requirements

For many UAE residents, religious travel remains one of the most common reasons for seeking vaccine advice.

Dr Qudsia Anjum Fasih, family medicine specialist at Burjeel Day Surgery Centre, Al Shahama, said inquiries linked to Hajj and Umrah consistently account for a significant share of vaccine consultations.

“In our practice, the highest number of vaccine inquiries is usually related to Umrah and Hajj travel. For these pilgrims, vaccines such as the meningococcal and influenza vaccines are among the key requirements and recommendations.”

She stressed that routine vaccinations included in government immunisation programmes should always be completed on schedule. Beyond these, additional travel-related vaccines may depend on the destination.

Fasih said, “For example, yellow fever vaccination may be required for travel to or from certain African countries. Typhoid and hepatitis vaccines are commonly discussed for travellers visiting parts of Asia, especially when there is a higher risk of foodborne or waterborne infections. These may not always be mandatory, but they are important preventive vaccines that families should discuss with a doctor before travelling.”

She also highlighted the importance of discussing malaria prevention before travel.

“Although malaria vaccination is not routinely used for travellers, preventive medications and mosquito-bite precautions are available and should be discussed based on the destination.”

Healthcare professionals recommend that families seek personalised medical advice rather than relying solely on online information, as vaccine requirements and health risks can vary significantly between countries.

Why timing matters before international travel

Medics point out another recurring problem is that travellers leave vaccinations too close to their departure date.

Some vaccines require multiple doses, while others need several weeks before they provide effective protection. Delaying appointments can leave travellers without sufficient immunity when they arrive at their destination.

Dr Mahmoud Medhat Mahmoud Aboumousa, critical care medicine specialist at International Modern Hospital Dubai, said vaccine requirements often come to light surprisingly late in the travel process.

He added that this can result in avoidable anxiety, travel disruptions and incomplete protection against infectious diseases.

Dr Aboumousa also pointed to international guidance encouraging travellers to be fully protected against measles before travelling abroad.

Particular attention should be paid to vulnerable groups, including young children, older adults, pregnant women and individuals with chronic health conditions.

“Families with children, elderly relatives, pregnant women, or people with diabetes, heart disease, weak immunity or chronic respiratory illness should seek travel health advice four to six weeks before departure.”

He warned that last-minute vaccination may not allow enough time for immunity to develop.

“Leaving vaccination until the last minute may mean the body does not have enough time to develop protection, multi-dose vaccines cannot be completed, side effects may occur during the trip, and high-risk travellers may be exposed to preventable infections in crowded airports, religious gatherings, rural areas or destinations with different disease patterns.”

By the end of 2025, bilateral trade turnover between the two nations reached an impressive $12 billion. This monumental figure represents a remarkable year-on-year growth rate of approximately 33 per cent. Such rapid acceleration underscores the strong demand for Russian goods, technologies, and services in the competitive Emirati market, where the country remains one of Russia's key trading partners. This success is driven by a steady diversification of sectors. While traditional industries maintain their importance, contemporary trade covers a broad spectrum of domains, including food products, information technology, artificial intelligence, digital solutions, industrial manufacturing, heavy machinery, medicine, healthcare technologies, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and the strictly regulated halal-certified products.

At the heart of this expanding commercial bridge lies the national brand “Made in Russia”, an overarching programme designed to promote top-tier Russian products in international markets. For Emirati business partners and distributors, “Made in Russia” acts as an efficient ecosystem that connects them directly with highly reliable suppliers. Today, the programme integrates an expansive framework consisting of international specialised exhibitions, major trade festivals, structured B2B missions, advanced marketing tools, and a digital platform.

To succeed in the UAE market, products must strictly adhere to rigorous quality benchmarks. Recognising this necessity, the programme features a voluntary certification system as one of its most essential structural elements. The official certification confirms the exceptional quality and compliance of the products, the operational reliability of the manufacturer, full alignment with strict international standards, and the comprehensive export readiness of the enterprise. This strict certification process eliminates market uncertainty for Middle Eastern buyers. Currently, the programme spans more than 2,400 Russian enterprises, encompassing an extensive catalog of over 31,700 distinct certified product positions.

Thousands of Russian companies from various industries have already received “Made in Russia” certificate. Among them are SPLAT Global, a producer of toothpastes, toothbrushes, and other body care products; Leber, a manufacturer of children's playgrounds; JSC “Progress” (the “FrutoNanny” brand), a manufacturer of baby food based on natural ingredients; "Mistral Trading", a premium segment producer of rice, grains, and legumes, and other companies that work with international markets, including the Gulf countries. Their experience shows that proven product quality and export readiness become an important advantage when entering the Middle East market.

"Made in Russia" goods are gaining popularity worldwide. The products can be found on the shelves of supermarkets and online stores in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, China, Vietnam, and other countries. The geography is constantly expanding, and the available selection is growing.

The physical presence of Russian goods within the UAE is already a reality, as local consumers and commercial distributors can readily purchase these products across prominent international retail chains, popular e-commerce platforms, and highly specialised niche marketplaces. Food items, cosmetics, daily consumer goods, and certified halal products are increasingly taking up shelf space, reflecting a growing consumer interest across the Gulf.

To facilitate this commercial flow, the programme operates a multilingual digital platform available on the website. To ensure frictionless communication with local enterprises, the portal is fully accessible in six languages, which are Arabic, English, Russian, Chinese, Turkish, and Vietnamese. The platform serves as a unified digital gateway for Middle Eastern companies. It allows them to instantly search for verified suppliers, explore active export initiatives, and stay updated on international trade events.

The growing relationship between the national brand “Made in Russia” and the UAE is sustained through regular, high-impact participation in the region's largest business events. Over recent years, Russian national pavilions have successfully showcased their capabilities at leading regional exhibitions such as Gulfood, GITEX Global, The Big 5, WETEX, and ADIPEC. A prime example was the national pavilion at Gulfood 2026, which yielded outstanding results, matching prominent food and FMCG brands with leading global retail buyers and distributors from across the GCC, MENA, Asia, and Africa.

The UAE remains a top-tier priority market for the international expansion of the programme. Throughout the remainder of 2026, the national brand “Made in Russia” will continue to strengthen its trade infrastructure through an intensive schedule of specialised exhibitions. Local business communities can engage with Russian companies at ISM Middle East from September 15 to 17 in Dubai, which focuses on confectionery and snacks, followed by Index Dubai from September 28 to 30, the largest interior design and furniture exhibition in the region. In October, from the 20th to the 22nd, Dubai will host the WETEX exhibition focused on sustainability, energy, and eco-technologies. This will be followed by the Russian Energy event in Abu Dhabi from November 2 to 5, designed to boost industrial and energy cooperation. The final months of the year will see participation at Big 5 Global from November 23 to 26, the region's massive construction exhibition, and Gitex Global from December 7 to 11, a premier world stage for information technology, artificial intelligence, and the digital economy.

Ultimately, the core message of "Made in Russia" to the UAE media and business community is clear: this initiative goes far beyond the simple distribution of commodities. It represents a conscious, long-term commitment to building robust international partnerships rooted in certified quality, stable supply logistics, and absolute mutual trust between businesses.

This digital initiative allows citizens and residents alike to express their appreciation of the country and the role of the President in ensuring the safety and comfort of all those who reside in the country.

Want to sign the pledge? Here are some key questions, answered.

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What is the UAE national pledge 2026?

Sandooq Al Watan, a non-profit organisation under Erth Zayed Philanthropies, who launched the pledge and commitment initiative said it was born from the stories of "every person living on this blessed land".

The initiative seeks to unify and empower the community, made of multiple nationalities and speaking different languages, "to speak with one voice in gratitude, commitment and loyalty" to the UAE President.

How do I sign the UAE national pledge online?

Individuals can take part by visiting pledge.ae. The platform is available in multiple languages, including Arabic, Urdu, Bengali, Malayalam, Chinese, and Filipino.

Enter your name and email, and select the 'click and participate with pride' button.

Who can sign the UAE national pledge online?

Every citizen and resident can participate in this initiative.

Sandooq Al Watan said the General Secretariat of the Cabinet also announced its participation in and support for the initiative, promoting it across all ministries, federal authorities, and government institutions.

Is signing the pledge free?

Yes, signing the pledge is completely free of cost, and digital.

Where do I find the official pledge link?

The official link and more details about the pledge, and the story behind the initiative can be found on Sandooq Al Watan's website.

You can also directly visit the link: pledge.ae

Can residents sign on behalf of family members?

Yes, residents can sign on behalf of family members. You can select the number of family members you wish to add to the pledge. The platform currently allows for a individual to add up to 10 family members.

Why is the UAE national pledge being launched?

According to Sandooq Al Watan, the initiative is being launched with four pillars in mind:

• Gratitude and appreciation: Thanking the UAE's leadership for providing security, dignity, and opportunity for every citizen and resident

• Following the national example: Following Sheikh Mohamed's example in accumulating values such as dedication and generosity, with loyalty remaining "both a duty and an honour"

• Collective commitment made by all members of the society to live together in harmony

• Continuity and legacy: Representing an "ongoing journey" passed down from one generation to the next

Will I receive a confirmation after signing?

After signing, you will receive a downloadable certificate of appreciation which can be downloaded and shared.

The certificate is available in two sizes, both landscape and portrait.

By analysing live traffic data, vehicle speeds, and driver behaviour, authorities can now identify potential risks before they escalate into serious incidents, allowing officers to intervene more quickly and effectively.

Speaking to Khaleej Times, Dubai Police said its advanced traffic management system continuously analyses live traffic information, including vehicle volumes, speeds, and movement patterns across the emirate.

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The authority combines real-time data with historical records to identify risky trends and locations that may require intervention, enabling officers to take preventive action before incidents escalate.

“When high speeds are recorded in a specific area, the location can be covered by radar systems and targeted enforcement measures,” Dubai Police said, adding that the approach helps ensure timely intervention and improves road safety.

How do these technologies help monitor traffic?

According to the force, a range of smart technologies now supports traffic monitoring and enforcement efforts. These include predictive systems that provide early warnings of potential road risks and AI-powered platforms that monitor driver behavior in real time.

Dubai Police said the technology is designed to continuously learn and adapt, allowing authorities to expand its use across different types of traffic violations. The systems have also helped develop specialised solutions to identify vehicles that generate excessive noise and disturbance.

Beyond enforcement, predictive analytics plays an important role in planning for major events and managing traffic flows. By analysing driver behaviour and traffic patterns, authorities can anticipate congestion, allocate resources more effectively, and improve traffic movement across the city.

Dubai Police also highlighted the close integration between smart technologies and field operations. Traffic patrols are linked to a network of cameras, monitoring systems, and command centres, enabling officers to receive instant updates about accidents, violations, and congestion.

This allows patrols to respond more quickly and efficiently, while data generated by the systems helps direct officers to locations that require immediate attention.

Why traffic awareness campaigns are important

Dubai Police stressed that awareness campaigns remain just as important as enforcement measures in improving road safety.

“Traffic awareness campaigns help build positive driving behavior and strengthen understanding of traffic laws, while legal and regulatory measures act as a deterrent against dangerous conduct,” Dubai Police said.

Authorities noted that combining education with enforcement delivers the strongest results, encouraging motorists to follow traffic regulations out of both awareness and accountability.

Looking ahead, Dubai Police said future innovations will further expand the use of AI to analyse historical and live traffic data, identify high-risk driving behaviors, and predict locations that may be more vulnerable to accidents.

Kuwaiti air traffic resumed after an Iranian attack caused a temporary, 2-hour closure of Kuwaiti airspace, and the diversion of 11 flights.

The closure, from 4.15am to 6.15am on Saturday, was a "precautionary measure" following the Iranian attack which involved missiles and drones, the country's Directorate General of Civil Aviation said.

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Emergency procedures and plans were activated to ensure the safety of passengers, crew and civil aviation facilities, Kuwait News Agency reported.

Eleven flights, operated by Kuwait Airways and Jazeera Airways, which were diverted to neighbouring airports — Dammam and Riyadh — have since returned to Kuwait International Airport after air traffic resumed.

Iran attacks on Kuwait, Bahrain

Seven ballistic missiles were launched toward Bahrain and Kuwait in the latest escalation. All the missiles were successfully intercepted, according to Bahrain authorities.

In the early morning hours on Saturday, Kuwait reported that its air defence systems were engaging hostile missiles and drones. The authorities alerted the public that explosion sounds may be heard due to interceptions.

Bahrain sounded the warning siren on early Saturday, urging residents to stay calm and head to the nearest safe place. Bahrain condemned the Iranian attacks, warning the Islamic Republic not to "equate patience to weakness".

Bahrain said that the protection of its people is a "red line that cannot be compromised," and asked for the immediate cessation of attacks, cooperation in removing mines, and allowing the safe departure of sailors stranded in Hormuz.

The Iran-backed Hezbollah militia rejected a new ceasefire in Lebanon on Thursday and Israel said it would not withdraw troops from the country, undermining US President Donald Trump's efforts to halt fighting there to forge peace with Tehran.

Israel kept up strikes in southern Lebanon, and Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israeli forces would not be withdrawing from the area or halting operations in the country.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei said on Thursday that Iran's enemies had already been defeated on the battlefield and were now seeking to sow internal divisions.

The UN nuclear watchdog said on Thursday that it found Iran's nuclear program to be largely unchanged despite three months of war.

Lebanon's death toll from Israeli attacks hits 3,526

The Lebanese Ministry of Health announced that 3,526 people have been killed in Israeli attacks across the country since March 2.

According to latest ministry figures, another 10,733 people have also been wounded.

Qatar PM speaks to Kuwait's Foreign Minister

Qatar's Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani received a phone call from Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kuwait Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al Ahmad Al Sabah.

The call discussed cooperation relations between the two countries, along with ways to support and strengthen them. It also discussed mediation efforts between the US and Iran.

The call also addressed coordinating efforts to support mediation aimed at reducing escalation, which contributes to strengthening security and stability in the region. Al Thani voiced the need for all parties to respond to the ongoing mediation efforts, which would open the way for addressing the root causes of the crisis through peaceful means and dialogue, and lead to a sustainable agreement that prevents renewed escalation.

Kuwait condemns death of UN peacekeeper in Lebanon

Kuwait has condemned the death of a Serbian UN peacekeeper in Lebanon on Thursday from wounds sustained when mortar shells hit his position near Marjayoun.

The Ministry of Foreign expressed Kuwait's categorical rejection of any actions that endanger UN forces, emphasizing the necessity of ensuring the safety of their personnel and enabling them to carry out their duties in accordance with the mandate granted to them and the relevant Security Council resolutions, particularly Resolution 1701, and calling for a transparent investigation and the holding accountable of those responsible for it.

The Ministry extended its condolences to Serbia, the United Nations, and the family of the deceased, wishing a speedy recovery to the injured.

Trump says he thinks progress is being made on Lebanon

Trump told reporters in Washington he believed progress was being made in Lebanon and the country deserved to have peace, adding, "It's been going on for a long time, you know."

Trump told reporters in the Oval Office that he had spoken to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and "I actually spoke to Hezbollah about it."

He continued: "And I think progress is made. It's been going on for a long time, you know," he said.

Oman suspends oil loading after drone attack on terminal

Oman's Mina al Fahal terminal has suspended oil loading following an explosion near its single-buoy mooring (SBM) berths, two people familiar with the matter said on Friday.

The explosion occurred between SBM 1 and 2 berths due to an alleged drone attack, they said.

It was not immediately clear when the attack took place.

Pakistan's Naqvi meets Iranian Interior Minister

Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni met to discuss Pakistan-Iran relations and the latest regional situation.

The ministers exchanged views on reduction of tensions and internal security matters. Both interior ministers emphasized the need to continue diplomatic efforts consistently for sustainable peace in the region.

Operations resume at Oman's Mina Al Fahal oil terminal

Operations at Oman's main crude oil export terminal at Mina Al Fahal have resumed, according to Bloomberg News.

Reuters had earlier reported that oil loading was suspended following an explosion near its single-buoy mooring (SBM) berths after an alleged drone attack.

Lebanese-Iranian relations in focus

Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun and former Lebanese Ambassador to Iran, Ambassador Hassan Abbas, discussed Lebanese-Iranian relations during a meeting.

Israeli strikes kill 7 in south Lebanon's Tyre: Civil Defence

Israeli strikes overnight in the south Lebanon city of Tyre killed seven people, a source from Lebanon's civil defence told AFP on Friday, despite a ceasefire in the Israel-Hezbollah war.

One strike near the Jabal Amel hospital killed four people, wounded seven and lightly damaged the facility, while another elsewhere in the city killed three and wounded five, including two children.

Oman says operations normal at Mina Al Fahal oil terminal

Petroleum Development Oman has confirmed that operations at Mina Al Fahal port are proceeding normally, according to the state news agency.

Israel army warns will attack 3 villages north of Lebanon's Litani River

Israel's military warned residents of three villages north of the Litani River in southern Lebanon to evacuate on Friday ahead of expected attacks against Iran-backed Hezbollah.

"For your safety, you must evacuate your homes immediately and move away from the villages and towns by at least 1,000 metres into open areas. Anyone who is near Hezbollah operatives, their facilities, or their weapons endangers their life!" the army's spokesman Avichay Adraee posted on X.

Hezbollah's chief engineer killed in Israeli strike in Lebanon last week: IDF

Hezbollah's chief engineer was killed in an Israeli strike in Lebanon last week, the Israeli Defence Forces have announced. The IDF said it struck Abed Harb, the commander of Hezbollah's engineering unit, after he “attempted to harm” Israeli soldiers, Times of Israel reported.

“Harb commanded the engineering unit that was responsible for assembling and deploying explosives intended to harm IDF soldiers in southern Lebanon,” the military says.

The IDF says Harab was a veteran commander in Hezbollah and was responsible for “numerous attacks against IDF soldiers” over the decades.

Trump says he does not need deal with Iran to get enriched uranium

Trump on Thursday said that Washington did not need a deal with Iran to get enriched uranium from the country.

"We could get it right now. I don't think they could stop us if we wanted, but there's no reason to. It's entombed," he told reporters in the Oval Office.

Trump also said that he did not want to meet with Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.

But he added that if Washington and Tehran reached a deal, it was possible that the two would meet and added: "If it happened ... I'd be respectful".

UN doubles appeal for Lebanon aid to nearly $640 amid Israel war

The UN on Friday more than doubled its aid appeal for Lebanon as the country reels from Israel's war against Iran-backed Hezbollah, saying nearly $640 million was needed over six months. 

"The humanitarian crisis in Lebanon is severe and deteriorating," the UN humanitarian agency OCHA said in a revised appeal for the country.

The UN had appealed for $308 million in March to support a massive emergency response led by Lebanon's government through to the end of May. On Friday it said that another $331 million would be needed through the end of August. 

EU sees no jet fuel shortage amid price surge, transport chief says

There are no signs of jet fuel shortages in Europe in the coming months despite the energy shock from the Iran War, though high prices are prompting airlines to cut uneconomic routes, the European Union's transport chief told Reuters.

The EU has so far weathered the disruption as the Middle East accounts for about 20% of its jet fuel imports, with US and Nigerian supplies largely filling the gap.

Middle East conflict pushing millions into hunger, WFP says

The Middle East conflict is pushing millions of people closer to hunger, as rising fuel and transport costs drive up food prices while funding shortfalls force aid agencies to scale back assistance, the U.N. World Food Programme said on Friday.

In March, the WFP forecast as many as 45 million people could fall into acute food insecurity if oil prices remained around $100 per barrel through June. That scenario is now unfolding, the agency said, with benchmark crude prices staying above that level since early March.

Qatar Airways to increase daily flights to Dubai

Qatar Airways continues to increase its capacity between Qatar and the UAE by gradually expanding frequencies between Hamad International Airport (DOH) and Dubai International Airport from two to five daily services from June 5, 2026.

The existing two daily flights will be increased to three daily flights effective today (June 5), followed by the introduction of the fourth flight from 15 June, and a fifth daily flight resumed during the summer season.

The Gulf carriers are expanding their route networks after ceasefire was announced by the US and Iran.

Hezbollah will withdraw from south Lebanon if Israel pulls back and comprehensive truce reached: Parliament speaker

India beats growth forecasts but Iran war clouds outlook

India's economy grew at a faster pace than expected in the first three months of 2026, driven by strong government spending and a robust services sector, official data showed on Friday.

However, the outlook for the rest of the year has been clouded by the Middle East war.

Gross domestic product rose 7.8 percent in the January-March quarter from the same period a year earlier, according to data from the statistics ministry.

That was down from the 8 percent recorded in the previous quarter but still above market expectations of 7.3 percent GDP growth.

A ministry news release said growth for the 2025-26 fiscal year, which ended in March, came in at 7.7 percent — up from 7.1 percent the previous year.

Friday's reading reaffirms India as the world's fastest major growing economy and will be welcome news for policymakers who face a slate of challenges for the current fiscal year.

However, New Delhi depends heavily on imports for its oil and gas needs, making it particularly vulnerable to the global energy shock caused by the Iran war.

Elevated global crude prices not only threaten to raise input costs and stoke inflation but also drive up India's import bill, potentially widening the current account deficit to a 14-year-high.

Iran fires warning shots at US destroyers in Gulf of Oman: Navy

Iran's navy said it fired warning shots at US destroyers in the Gulf of Oman, according to state media.

Nearly 2 months into ceasefire

With the ceasefire now in its 59th day, Khaleej Times has been closely tracking developments across the region and beyond since April 8, bringing readers continuous updates on every major shift and key moment.

Here’s a look at how the situation has unfolded over the past 58 days in our coverage:

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Oil steadies as Oman says Mina al Fahal operations proceeding normally

Oil prices stabilised on Friday after Oman said operations at its Mina al Fahal port were proceeding normally, following a Reuters report of disruption after an explosion.

Petroleum Development Oman said operations at Mina al Fahal port were unaffected, after three sources told Reuters that oil loading had been suspended following an explosion near its mooring berths.

Oman exports 800,000 to 900,000 barrels per day of crude from the terminal.

Germany warns against travel to Bahrain, Kuwait

The German foreign ministry warned on Friday against travel to Bahrain and Kuwait.

It especially discouraged travel to Bahrain, it said in a statement, citing a still "highly volatile" security situation in the region.

"A further deterioration in the security situation, including significant restrictions on air travel, cannot be ruled out," it said.

Lebanon president says Iran using Lebanon as bargaining chip in US talks

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun told CNN that Iran was using Lebanon as a bargaining chip in its negotiations with the United States.

Aoun has repeatedly sought to distance Lebanon from regional conflicts and has said decisions concerning the country's sovereignty and security must be made by the Lebanese state alone.

Lebanese and Israeli envoys in Washington agreed to a truce this week that according to a statement is conditional on a "complete cessation" of Hezbollah fire, without mentioning a halt to Israeli attacks.

Lebanon PM tells Iran to stop treating country as 'bargaining chip'

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam on Friday urged Iran to stop treating his country, where Israel and the Tehran-backed Hezbollah are at war, as a "bargaining chip" in its negotiations with Washington on the Middle East conflict.

"If I may address a word to Iran, it is this: have mercy on our south, stop treating it and its people as merely a bargaining chip to improve the terms of your negotiations," Salam told a press conference for a UN aid appeal for Lebanon.

US military rejects Iran's claim of firing on American warships

US Central Command on Friday rejected claims that Iranian forces fired warning shots at US warships in the Gulf of Oman and forced them to retreat toward the Indian Ocean.

Ireland bans two Israeli ministers from entering country: Ministry

Ireland on Friday barred Israel's national security minister and finance minister from entering the country over the war in Gaza.

Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan "has instructed immigration officers to refuse entry to Itamar Ben-Gvir - Minister for National Security of Israel, and Bezalel Smotrich, Minister of Finance of Israel - should they seek to enter the state," said a justice ministry statement sent to AFP.

Iran declares support for Hezbollah with wider peace deal in doubt

Iran has reaffirmed support for its Lebanese ally Hezbollah and demanded that Israel withdraw from southern Lebanon, underscoring complications facing an interim deal to end the broader conflict between the US and Iran.

Tehran has made a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah a condition for any peace deal with Washington to resolve the regional war, now in its fourth month, and restart shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

"This war will end only when it ends in Lebanon as well," Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi told Lebanese TV station Al Mayadeen late on Thursday.

France opens 'war crime' probe over Israel treatment of flotilla activists

France has opened an investigation into an alleged "war crime" and "torture" over Israel's treatment of French activists who took part in a Gaza-bound aid flotilla, a prosecutor's office said Friday.

The probe was opened at the government's request, the national counterterrorism prosecutor's office (PNAT) said, after activists accused Israeli authorities of mistreatment during their detention last month.

Dubai gold prices lose nearly Dh12

Gold prices continued their downward trend, losing nearly Dh12 per gram on Friday as the precious metal fell below $4,400 an ounce.

According to Dubai Jewellery, 24K gold prices plunged Dh11.75 per gram on Friday, trading at Dh526.75 per gram. Similarly, 22K, 21K, 18K and 14K fell to Dh487.25, Dh467.25, Dh400.5 and Dh312.25 per gram, respectively.

Iran squad hand passports to US embassy for visa approval

Iran's football squad, whose participation in the World Cup remains uncertain, have handed their passports to the US embassy in Turkey for visas, the head of their Football Federation said on Friday.

Mehdi Taj said Iran were following instructions from world football's governing body.

Their quest for the visas comes as Iran and the United States remain locked in negotiations to end the Middle East war that began in February with a massive wave of strikes on the Islamic republic.

The Iranian team is due to fly from Turkey to Spain on Saturday before travelling on to their base camp in Mexico, which has issued visas to the squad.

US issues new Iran-related sanctions: Treasury Department

The United States imposed new Iran-related sanctions on Friday, the US Treasury Department's website showed.

He added that the department would continue targeting Iran’s shadow fleet, shadow banking networks and access to global trade.

Stocks fall as strong jobs data fuels rate hike bets

Shares dipped on Friday after a blowout jobs report fueled bets of a rate hike by the US Federal Reserve and as investors turned defensive ahead of the weekend, wary of the flare-up in Middle East hostilities.

On Wall Street, all three indexes were lower, led by a selloff in technology shares, including AI chipmaker Nvidia. Shares in Broadcom were down nearly 5 per cent continuing losses since the semiconductor company reported underwhelming results on Wednesday.

Tremor in Iran

While tensions persist in the region, southern Iran was shaken by a magnitude 5 earthquake, the UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) confirmed.

It occurred at 7:.8pm UAE time, at a depth of 10km

$24 billion in frozen assets

CNN quoted Mohsen Rezaei, an adviser to Iran's supreme leader, as saying that a potential agreement between Washington and Tehran hinges on Trump's administration agreeing to release $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets.

Putin says he wants oil prices to be balanced

Russia wants oil prices on global markets to be balanced and stable amid the US war against Iran, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday.

Speaking at Russia's annual economic forum, Putin said that the reduction in oil supplies was causing concern in the market, but that Russia was participating in OPEC+ in order to balance the market.

Iran ex-PM hospitalised after years under house arrest

Iran's former prime minister Mir Hossein Mousavi, who was the focus of a 2009 mass protest movement and has spent the last 15 years under house arrest, has been hospitalised after his health deteriorated, an advisor said on Friday.

Mousavi, the last person to serve as Iran's premier before the post was abolished, had claimed to be the rightful victor of the disputed 2009 presidential elections.

Most recently, he urged Iran's clerical leadership to step down because of its deadly crackdown on protesters in January in which many thousands were killed.

Last week, "he suffered a health crisis and was transferred to a hospital," his advisor Ardeshir Amir Arjomand, who is based outside Iran, told BBC Persian.

"He is now hospitalised, although his condition has improved since today," he added.

US approves visas for Iran’s World Cup squad

Iran's national football team players have been granted visas to enter the United States for the Fifa World Cup 2026, a White House official confirmed.

Ship traffic via Hormuz decreased in past 24 hours: IRIB

Ship traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has sharply decreased in the past 24 hours, Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) said.

Iranian oil prices fall into discount for first time since April

Iranian oil prices have fallen into discount for the first time since April, as weak demand from Chinese refiners outweighs tighter supply caused by a sharp drop in exports under the US blockade, Reuters reported on Friday.

Iranian Light crude is being offered at a discount of 50 cents to $1 per barrel against ICE Brent for delivery this month to China’s eastern Shandong province, three traders told Reuters.

The grade had traded at premiums of $1 to $2 in the previous two months. Shandong is home to China’s independent refiners, known as teapots, which are among the main buyers of sanctioned Iranian oil.

But weak fuel demand and poor refining margins have forced some of them to cut processing rates.

Lebanon President shares message for Israel, Hezbollah

In an exclusive interview with CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stressed the urgent need for dialogue in the region, saying it is time for Israel and Hezbollah to “sit and talk” in order to reduce tensions and move toward stability.

Check out what he said here:

Gold falls about 3%

Gold fell about 3 per cent on Friday after a stronger-than-expected US jobs report reinforced expectations that the Federal Reserve will keep interest rates higher for longer amid inflation concerns fuelled by the war in the Middle East.

Spot gold was down 2.96 per cent at $4,341.52 per ounce at 1.44 pm EDT (1744 GMT), after falling to its lowest level since March 24 earlier in the session. Bullion was down about 4.3 per cent this week.

US gold futures for August delivery settled 3.1 per cent lower at $4,365.3.

US to give nearly $38 million more for Ebola response: State Department

Amid the conflict, the United States is providing an additional $38 million for Ebola response efforts, raising its total funding to more than $200 million, according to the State Department.

US sanctions Iranian LPG export, 'shadow banking' networks

The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on a network allegedly exporting Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) from Iran to South and Eastern Asia by falsely flagging it as originating in Oman, the Treasury said.

The network used front companies in China and a "shadow fleet" of vessels, according to a Treasury statement.

The system, designed to evade existing US sanctions, moved LPG worth hundreds of millions of dollars, it added.

The United States has tightened sanctions on Iran since it jointly launched its war on the country with Israel in late February.

In addition, Washington on Friday also sanctioned an Iranian currency exchange house and individuals associated with it for allegedly helping Iran facilitate billions in financial transactions.

Witkoff, Kushner meet nuclear experts: Axios

White House Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner traveled to the national lab in Oak Ridge, Tennessee on Thursday for consultations with a new team of experts ahead of potential nuclear talks with Iran, Axios reported on Friday citing informed sources.

Why did regional attacks continue despite the ceasefire?

Nearly two months after a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran came into effect on April 8, tensions in the Gulf were jolted again on June 3, when Kuwait and Bahrain reported fresh missile and drone attacks originating from Iran.

The strikes on Kuwait, in particular, mark the most serious escalation yet on a Gulf country since the ceasefire went into effect. One Indian was killed and at least 63 people injured, but Trump insisted that the ceasefire is still intact.

Read our full report on why regional attacks continuing despite US-Iran ceasefire.

Timeline of how hostilities unfolded since April 8

Nearly two months into a ceasefire declared on April 8, tensions continue to persist despite a broad agreement to pause daily strikes. Multiple instances of hostilities have been reported over recent weeks on both sides, with Iran continuing to target regional US bases and assets in what Tehran describes as retaliatory strikes against US aggression.

Here is a timeline of how hostilities have unfolded since April 8:

US to update directive on AI use in weapon systems

The United States will within the next 90 days issue an update to its directive on the use of AI in weapons systems, the White House said in a statement on Friday.

Keep reading Khaleej Times!

Nearly two months since a ceasefire was declared on April 8, no formal agreements have yet been reached, as tensions and diplomatic activity continue across the region.

In the latest sign of lingering friction, Iran's navy said it fired warning shots at US destroyers in the Gulf of Oman, according to state media. However, US Central Command rejected the claim, denying that Iranian forces had fired warning shots at US warships or forced them to retreat toward the Indian Ocean.

Meanwhile, Oman’s Mina al Fahal terminal reportedly suspended oil loading following an explosion near its single-buoy mooring (SBM) berths, according to two people familiar with the matter. However, Petroleum Development Oman later confirmed through the state news agency that operations at Mina Al Fahal port are proceeding normally.

The United States imposed new Iran-related sanctions on Friday, according to the US Treasury Department’s website. The measures target a network allegedly involved in exporting liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from Iran to South and Eastern Asia by falsely flagging it as originating in Oman, in a system designed to bypass existing sanctions.

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, former adviser and son-in-law of Donald Trump, visited the national lab in Oak Ridge, Tennessee for consultations with a team of experts ahead of potential nuclear talks with Iran, Axios reported, citing informed sources.

Separately, Iran’s national football team players have been granted visas to enter the United States for the FIFA World Cup 2026, a White House official confirmed.

As the region approaches the 60-day mark since the ceasefire was announced, hopes remain that ongoing diplomatic efforts could help translate the fragile pause in hostilities into a more lasting agreement.

We are closing this live blog for now. Stay with Khaleej Times for the latest updates as developments continue to unfold.

US yet to issue visas to some Iran World Cup staff: Fars News Agency

Iran's Fars News Agency reported that the United States has not yet issued visas to some members of Iran's national football team's technical and administrative staff ahead of the 2026 Fifa World Cup.

This comes after a White House official confirmed that visas had been granted to Iran's players for entry into the United States.

Lebanon says Israeli strike kills 5 including woman, paramedic

Lebanon said an Israeli strike killed five people, including a woman and a paramedic.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) announced the additional precautionary measures on Friday to strengthen national preparedness and respond to developments related to the Ebola virus.

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When does the decision come into effect?

The UAE visa suspension takes effect at 1pm on Saturday, June 6, 2026, and may be extended depending on the health situation.

Entry to the UAE will be restricted for travellers arriving from the listed countries, including those travelling via transit through other countries.

Entry will only be permitted for travellers who have spent more than 21 days outside the listed countries before arriving in the UAE.

Cargo flights between the UAE and the three countries will continue without disruption.

Transit flights will also continue without disruption, the authorities said.

The NCEMA and ICP will continue to monitor developments related to the Ebola virus in coordination with local and international partners. They will also assess its impact on any other countries and take the necessary measures in line with risk assessments and approved health standards.

The UAE continues to maintain precautionary preparedness measures against Ebola, including surveillance, early detection, airport readiness and healthcare preparedness, the Ministry of Health and Prevention has said.

In an advisory on June 3, MoHAP said that the public health situation in the country remains stable, while the current Ebola outbreak remains primarily concentrated in parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda.

The portal, launched on June 2 for Class 12 students seeking services such as verification of marks and re-evaluation of answer scripts, was targeted by repeated attacks over three days.

According to CBSE, the attacks involved large volumes of malicious traffic from multiple IP addresses in India and abroad, with the apparent aim of disrupting access for legitimate users and attempting unauthorised extraction of information.

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"The attacks were successfully mitigated through continuous 24×7 monitoring and response mechanisms," CBSE said in a statement.

The board said it approached Delhi Police for a detailed investigation and legal action against those responsible, adding that no data breach or unauthorised access had been detected. "Despite these malicious attempts, CBSE's systems and databases remain secure and uncompromised. No data breach or unauthorised access has been detected."

The attacks come at a critical time for students, as the portal is used by thousands of students across the country to access post-result services.

According to a an earlier press release from CBSE, the portal will remain open until midnight on June 6, allowing students sufficient time to complete their applications for verification and re-evaluation.

However, some students continued to report technical issues and glitches on June 5, raising concerns over accessibility and timely submission of forms.

One user wrote on X: "The revaluation payment page is stuck in an endless loading loop and my transaction won't go through. Please fix this portal glitch soon as deadlines are approaching!"

Responding to the complaint, CBSE replied to the post and shared a video tutorial with step-by-step instructions to help users complete the payment process and navigate the portal successfully.

On June 4, X user Aparna779068 also reported reported technical difficulties.

The operation, which was carried out at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC) about two years ago but has only now been publicly announced, involved four surgeries over six months and a multinational team of more than 60 doctors, surgeons and clinicians.

Mercy and Goodness were born with their skulls fused together and with intertwined brain tissue and blood vessels, a rare condition known as craniopagus twinning that is considered among the most difficult challenges in paediatric neurosurgery.

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After the final operation, the sisters were able to see each other face-to-face for the first time.

Medical teams from the UAE, UK, Brazil and Nigeria, worked on the case, using advanced imaging, virtual reality planning, and 3D-printing technology to map the girls' shared anatomy before surgery.

Abu Dhabi Media Office shared a video of the twins before and after the surgery. Watch here:

The procedures were led by Professor Noor Ul Owase Jeelani, founder of Gemini Untwined and a consultant paediatric neurosurgeon at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children in London.

According to the medical team, the twins underwent reconstruction of their skulls using custom-made 3D-printed titanium implants following the separation.

The girls completed rehabilitation in the UAE and have since returned home to Nigeria with their family.

Officials said the operation was the first successful separation of craniopagus twins carried out in the Gulf region.

Professor Jeelani described the case as one of the most complex undertaken by the international team, requiring extensive planning and collaboration across multiple medical specialties.

Craniopagus twins are among the rarest forms of conjoined twins, accounting for only a small fraction of cases worldwide. Because they often share blood vessels and brain structures, separation surgeries can take months or even years of preparation and carry significant risks.