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Listen on Apple PodcastsIn today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US launches a new wave of strikes across Iran after attacks on its military bases in the region. We examine the aftermath of joint US-Saudi strikes in Iraq, as Iran-backed groups threaten retaliation. We also look at a fire at Egypt’s Damietta gas terminal, where two vessels were damaged and authorities are investigating the cause, and a US-Saudi consortium’s plans for a $5 billion oil refinery and export base in the Gulf. And the UAE launches an Dh11.5 million Water Aid campaign to expand access to drinking water and shaded areas for outdoor workers during the summer. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US and Saudi Arabia launch joint strikes against Iran-backed groups in Iraq after a wave of attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure. We also look at Iran’s missile attack on US military sites in Jordan, as well as renewed attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels. We also examine the launch of a US-UAE task force to accelerate the development of AI tools for military purposes. The move is aimed at strengthening defence capabilities and expanding joint technology development. Fifa, meanwhile, has announced plans to seek private investment in the World Cup and other major tournaments through a new company, a proposal that could raise billions of dollars for its member associations but that has already drawn strong criticism from Uefa. And Abu Dhabi’s Guggenheim museum announces it will open on December 11, marking another major milestone for the emirate’s Saadiyat Cultural District. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump prepares to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, with Iran expected to dominate the agenda as Washington weighs diplomacy alongside the threat of renewed military action. We also examine Saudi Arabia and Jordan intercepting drones targeting their territory; Lebanon's proposal to create a new Mediterranean export route for Iraqi oil as Baghdad looks for alternatives to the Strait of Hormuz; and Egypt granting sweeping new economic powers to the Future of Egypt Authority as part of broader state reforms. And a New York judge orders convicted fraudster Renwick Haddow back into custody after a scheme that targeted investors in the UAE and about 60 other countries, with more than 800 victims identified. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, America's top military commander in the Middle East reportedly advised the White House to halt its bombing campaign around the Strait of Hormuz after concluding it had reached the limit of its effectiveness. Axios reports the assessment helped shape US President Donald Trump's decision to pause attacks on Iran, as Tehran and Oman hold talks on reopening the strait and diplomacy gathers pace ahead of Mr Trump's meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. We also examine falling oil prices after the US and Iran paused hostilities, Iran's claims that six ships were prevented from transiting the Strait of Hormuz, and continued security risks after Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. Israel also approves the deployment of an international force under its Gaza peace plan, while violence escalates across the occupied West Bank with settler attacks, mass arrests and fresh land seizures. And Dubai opens a major new bridge as work continues on one of the emirate's biggest road-improvement projects, with authorities aiming to significantly reduce congestion and delays. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans
Iran has reportedly rejected a ceasefire proposal delivered by Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi during his first visit to Tehran. This comes as US President Donald Trump considers conducting a “massive attack” against Iran. During his visit, Mr Al Zaidi announced the establishment of an Iraqi-Iranian Joint Economic Committee. The two countries also signed several agreements concerning foreign affairs, finance and energy. Mr Trump said a US-Saudi civil nuclear agreement signed a day earlier, would advance only if Riyadh joins the Abraham Accords with Israel, marking a shift from his administration's original position. A new report on Gaza has found that reconstruction will cost seven times more than the combined cost of the three previous wars in the territory. And in the UAE, researchers at New York University Abu Dhabi have discovered a weakness in malaria parasites that could be instrumental in developing future treatments. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans
US President Donald Trump has threatened to target Iranian infrastructure if Tehran attacks commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, as the war continues for a 12th consecutive night. As the conflict escalates to new fronts, Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed attacks on two tankers in the Red Sea after declaring a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia. DP World has signed an agreement to build two new deepwater terminals on the UAE’s east coast, creating a trade route that avoids the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, the US and Saudi Arabia have reached a deal to develop a civilian nuclear programme in the kingdom. And in the UAE, Etihad Rail will open its Madinat Zayed and Liwa passenger stations on November 30, one month earlier than planned. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans
Several tankers carrying Saudi oil have turned around in the Red Sea one day after the Houthis declared a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia. The new threats are raising fears of further disruption to Gulf trade. Kuwait’s military air defences intercepted hostile missiles and drones again this morning, which it says was an Iranian attack. This comes as the US completes its 11th consecutive night of strikes on Iran. In Washington, President Donald Trump said US airlines will be allowed to resume direct flights to Lebanon, ending a four-decade ban. The announcement came during a visit by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to the White House. In Gaza, chickenpox is spreading rapidly, with nearly 10,000 cases recorded among children in the first two weeks of summer. In an effort to boost tourism, Dubai has launched a scheme that offers residents up to Dh3,000 in hotel and leisure discounts when they invite family and friends to visit the emirate. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans
Yemen’s Houthi rebels have announced a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia, raising fears of further disruption to Red Sea shipping. Previous threats have already disrupted Saudi oil exports, with crude loadings through the Bab Al Mandeb strait falling 36 per cent in two weeks. The conflict between the US and Iran continues for a 10th night. US Central Command said it targeted maritime capabilities, command centres, and missile and drone sites, while Iran launched attacks on Kuwait and Jordan again. In Lebanon, the US said pilot zones for the Israeli military’s withdrawal from the south of the country have begun. The announcement comes ahead of Lebanese President Joseph Aoun's visit to the White House today. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace has approved a pilot project to house Palestinians in Gaza, in a move that appears to stray from initial plans for reconstruction. And the UAE marks a milestone in its Emiratisation programme as more than 190,000 Emiratis are now employed by private companies, meeting the scheme's targets for the first half of the year. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans
The conflict between the US and Iran continues to escalate, with both sides launching more attacks across the Gulf and the wider Middle East. US forces have carried out a ninth consecutive night of strikes on Iranian military targets, while Iran launched missiles towards Jordan, Kuwait intercepted hostile drones, Bahrain activated warning sirens and Tehran warned the Strait of Hormuz would remain unsafe for oil and gas traffic while US attacks continue. Oil prices climb above $90 a barrel as markets price in the growing risk of disruption to global energy supplies, while flights to Kuwait and Bahrain begin returning to normal after weekend airspace restrictions, despite new travel warnings. We also examine Lebanese President Joseph Aoun's upcoming talks with US President Donald Trump, where Beirut will seek stronger American backing for Israel's withdrawal from southern Lebanon. On Trending Middle East, we also hear how the UAE is working with retailers and suppliers to safeguard food supplies and keep prices stable as shipping disruption continues. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
Spain are world champions for the second time after beating Argentina 1-0 in extra time at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. It was a performance that defined their entire tournament: patient, disciplined and ruthless when the moment arrived. Spain dominated throughout, finishing with 20 attempts to Argentina's two, but Emiliano Martinez kept Argentina alive with a series of crucial saves, finishing with 11, the most ever recorded in a men's World Cup final. The match turned in stoppage time when Enzo Fernandez, already booked for dissent, received a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsi. With Argentina reduced to 10 men, Ferran Torres scored the winner 39 seconds into the second half of extra time, driving his finish beyond Martinez after Nico Williams kept the ball alive at the back post. A Williams goal had earlier been ruled out for a foul by Mikel Merino on Nicolas Otamendi. Leandro Paredes was sent off after the final whistle for shoving Gavi during a post-match confrontation. Lionel Messi finished without a goal or assist, having been largely denied the space to influence the match. He confirmed afterwards that this was his final World Cup. Spain, unbeaten in 38 consecutive matches, conceded only one goal in the entire tournament. At the post-match ceremony, Rodri received the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player. Messi took the Silver Ball and Kylian Mbappe the Bronze Ball. Mbappe won the Golden Boot with 10 goals, Messi the Silver Boot with eight and Jude Bellingham the Bronze Boot with seven. Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón won the Golden Glove after keeping seven clean sheets. Cubarsi was named the best young player. England finished third after a remarkable 6-4 win over France in Miami on Saturday. US President Donald Trump attended the final alongside Fifa president Gianni Infantino and joined him on the pitch for the trophy presentation, where he was met with loud boos from sections of the crowd. Mina Rzouki presents Trending Middle East's World Cup round-up, a daily bonus series from The National for the duration of the tournament.
The latest phase of the conflict between the US and Iran enters its seventh consecutive day as Iran launches new missile and drone attacks across the Gulf, while the US carries out another round of strikes on Iranian military targets. Tehran also says no oil or gas will be exported through the Strait of Hormuz for as long as the attacks continue. India suspends the deployment of its seafarers through the Strait of Hormuz after deadly attacks on commercial shipping, with injured sailors from two UAE-operated tankers continuing to receive treatment in the Emirates. Iraq warns it could lose enough electricity to power at least one million homes after Dana Gas suspends operations at the Khor Mor gasfield because of security threats. We also examine the latest US-backed negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, where military talks are expected to continue before proposed security zones in southern Lebanon can move forward. Elsewhere, rising gang violence in northern Sudan highlights growing security concerns as the country's civil war continues. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
The build-up to Sunday's World Cup final has been overshadowed by two controversies from the semi-final between Argentina and England. Several Argentina players displayed a banner reading "Las Malvinas son Argentinas", which means "the Falklands are Argentinian", after the final whistle. Fifa's stadium code prohibits political messages and the governing body's disciplinary committee is reviewing the incident. But Argentina's place in final against Spain is not at risk. England midfielder Jude Bellingham also faces possible disciplinary action after slapping Argentina substitute Valentin Barco on the back of the head after the South American team's semi-final triumph. Fifa has yet to decide whether to charge Bellingham and a ban could rule him out of Saturday's third-place play-off against France. Meanwhile, Spain's Lamine Yamal and Pedro Porro trained separately on Thursday as a precaution, but are both expected to be available for the final. US President Donald Trump is to attend the showpiece match at MetLife Stadium and, alongside Fifa president Gianni Infantino, will present the trophy after the final whistle. The Golden Boot race is level heading into the decisive final weekend. Argentina's Lionel Messi and France striker Kylian Mbappe are both on eight goals, with Messi ahead on assists as the tiebreaker. Mina Rzouki presents Trending Middle East's World Cup round-up, a daily bonus series from The National for the duration of the tournament.
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the regional war reaches occupied UAE territory after US forces strike Iranian military positions on Greater Tunb. The UAE island was seized by Tehran in 1971. Washington says the operation struck coastal defence systems and other military infrastructure to weaken Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Jordan and Kuwait report intercepting renewed Iranian attacks. We also examine Washington’s approval of nearly $2.5 billion in new military equipment sales to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. In Rome, Lebanon and Israel make progress in their US-backed negotiations, agreeing to advance the plan for pilot security zones in southern Lebanon while technical talks continue. We also look at new US transparency rules that could force Gulf family offices investing in activist campaigns on Wall Street to reveal their identities for the first time. And Dubai’s Museum of the Future prepares for its biggest transformation since opening, with every major exhibition set to be replaced before a relaunch in early 2027. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
Argentina are in the World Cup final after beating England 2-1 in Atlanta, scoring twice in the final minutes in another example of the late comebacks that have defined their tournament. Anthony Gordon gave England the lead in the 55th minute, but Thomas Tuchel's decision to drop deep and protect the lead proved costly. From Gordon's goal until Argentina's equaliser, England had only 12 per cent possession. Enzo Fernandez made it 1-1 with a long-range strike in the 85th minute before Lionel Messi created the winner in stoppage time, crossing for Lautaro Martinez to head in. Argentina face Spain in Sunday's World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium. Kick off is 11pm in the UAE. Tuchel accepted responsibility for England's approach, saying the team were not active enough. Harry Kane acknowledged England struggled to keep the ball after scoring, repeating a pattern from previous tournaments. In Paris, police made 98 arrests following disorder after France's semi-final defeat by Spain, which coincided with Bastille Day. The third-place play-off against England will be Didier Deschamps' final match as France coach after 14 years. He won the World Cup in 2018 and has reached three consecutive semi-finals. Zinedine Zidane is widely expected to replace him. The third-place play-off is in Miami on Saturday local time, kicking off at 1am on Sunday in the UAE. Mina Rzouki presents Trending Middle East's World Cup round-up, a daily bonus series from The National for the duration of the tournament.
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the conflict between the US and Iran shows no sign of easing as they exchange another round of strikes. The latest American attacks targeted Iran's military infrastructure near the Strait of Hormuz, while Tehran launched strikes on US-linked sites in Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait. We also examine the growing effects of the escalation on global shipping as only a handful of vessels sail through the strait. UAE Minister of State Lana Nusseibeh tells The National that diplomacy remains the best path to reopening one of the world's most important trade routes. We also look at efforts to reduce the region's reliance on the waterway, as the US backs plans to revive the Iraq-Syria oil pipeline and President Donald Trump signals major energy deals with Baghdad. In Rome, Lebanese and Israeli negotiators take part in US-backed talks aimed at implementing last month's ceasefire. Disagreements over "pilot zones" in southern Lebanon remain at the centre of discussions. And Abu Dhabi's 2PointZero strengthens its global energy ambitions with a $2.25 billion acquisition of a major US natural gas company, expanding its presence in one of the world's largest energy markets. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
Spain are in the World Cup final after beating France 2-0 in Dallas – producing one of the most complete performances of the tournament to reach the showpiece. Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty in the 22nd minute after Lamine Yamal was fouled by Lucas Digne, before Pedro Porro added a second goal in the second half. But the wider story was how Spain neutralised France's attack. Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola managed only three shots on target between them. Spain's midfield, anchored by Rodri, was dominant throughout. France head coach Didier Deschamps faces questions about his tactical choices after starting four attackers against a Spain side built to dominate possession. Mbappe said France failed to press high as planned. Rayan Cherki was more direct, saying France were beaten technically, tactically and in the duels. Deschamps is due to step down after the tournament. Spain are to face England or Argentina in Sunday's final at MetLife Stadium. Tonight, England face Argentina at 11pm UAE time in Atlanta. The match carries the weight of history, from Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" goal in 1986 to David Beckham's red card in 1998. Argentina's team have been filmed singing about the Malvinas and Maradona, as well as Lionel Messi, who is playing in what is expected to be his final World Cup. In other news, Fifa is expected to wait until after the tournament to decide whether to take action against coaches and players who criticised referees. England manager Thomas Tuchel, Switzerland player Manuel Akanji and Egypt coach Hossam Hassan have all made remarks about officials during the tournament. Meanwhile, the World Cup final half-time show is expected to run for 20 to 25 minutes, with Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Justin Bieber and Burna Boy among the names linked to the performance. Mina Rzouki presents Trending Middle East's World Cup round-up, a daily bonus series from The National for the duration of the tournament.
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, hostilities across the Gulf escalate again after Iranian missiles strike two UAE supertankers in the Strait of Hormuz, killing one sailor and injuring eight. The attacks follow a third consecutive night of US strikes on Iran, while President Donald Trump proposes a 20 per cent transit charge for vessels using the strait under US protection. We look at the wider impact on travel, as the UK updates its advice for visitors to the UAE, while airports across the Emirates continue operating with only limited disruption despite the latest military escalation. In Yemen, Saudi Arabia comes under renewed attack from Houthi rebels, with ballistic missiles intercepted after explosions at Sanaa International Airport, prompting UN calls to avoid a return to full-scale conflict. Lebanese and Israeli delegations are also due to meet in Rome for the latest round of US-backed negotiations, with the future of southern Lebanon and Israel's proposed withdrawal from pilot zones at the centre of discussions. And the European Union launches an €883.6 million ($1,000) recovery initiative for Gaza, bringing together 15 international partners to restore essential services and support reconstruction as the Palestinian Authority presses ahead with governance reforms. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans
For the first time since Fifa introduced its world rankings, the top four teams have all reached the semi-finals. France, Argentina, Spain and England were kept apart by a new seeding system and it has delivered a semi-final line-up regarded as the strongest in World Cup history. France face Spain tonight at 11pm UAE time in Arlington, Texas. France striker Kylian Mbappe is fit and expected to start, but Spain have conceded only one goal in seven matches. The Golden Boot race adds another layer of intrigue to the match, with the two sides carrying the tournament's most dangerous attacks. England face Argentina tomorrow at 11pm in Atlanta, Georgia. Argentina will wear their navy blue away kit, a decision Argentinian media have linked to superstition after famous wins over England in 1986 and 1998. England are seeking a first World Cup title since 1966, while Argentina are chasing back-to-back titles – the last team to manage that feat were Brazil in 1958 and 1962. Mina Rzouki presents Trending Middle East's World Cup round-up, a daily bonus series from The National for the duration of the tournament.
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Iran launches missile and drone attacks across Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait and Oman following waves of US strikes inside Iran. Gulf countries activate warnings and defences as Washington says its operation targeted Iranian military infrastructure to protect shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. We also turn to Qatar, as the country prepares to receive regional and international leaders following the death of former emir Sheikh Hamad. Four days of national mourning have been declared as a mark of respect for the leader credited with transforming the country into a global diplomatic and economic power. Meanwhile, the EU is divided over whether to restrict trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, with officials debating legal options that could shape the bloc's policy in the months ahead. Elsewhere in the Middle East, the UAE and Egypt reaffirm their strategic partnership after talks between President Sheikh Mohamed and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi in El Alamein, focusing on regional security and humanitarian support for Gaza. And Dubai approves a Dh2 billion ($544.5 million) road project featuring new bridges, tunnels and cycling infrastructure to ease congestion and improve connectivity for hundreds of thousands of residents by 2028. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
The World Cup semi-finals are set after a weekend that produced drama, controversy and tragedy in equal measure. Spain beat Belgium 2-1 in Los Angeles, with Mikel Merino scoring a late winner. That goal came after Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois went off injured and his replacement Senne Lammens spilled a shot from distance. England beat Norway 2-1 after extra time in Miami, with Jude Bellingham scoring both goals for his team. Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 after extra time in Kansas City. Alexis Mac Allister struck first then Switzerland equalised in the second half through Dan Ndoye, before Breel Embolo was controversially sent off following a VAR review under the mistaken identity protocol. The referee had initially booked Leandro Paredes, before VAR identified the foul as a dive by Embolo, who received his second yellow card of the game. Switzerland were furious, with captain Granit Xhaka saying the decision changed the game. The weekend's most sobering news was the death of South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams at the age of 25, just weeks after playing at the World Cup. France face Spain tomorrow at 11pm UAE time. England face Argentina on Wednesday, also at 11pm. Mina Rzouki presents Trending Middle East's World Cup round-up, a daily bonus series from The National for the duration of the tournament.