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We bring you the top news stories, field reports and in-depth insights from the Middle East and beyond
Episodes
31 minutes ago
31 minutes ago
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump suggests the US could resume military operations against Iran, even as US commanders say Tehran’s offensive capabilities have been heavily weakened.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in the UAE for talks focused on regional security, energy and the impact of the Strait of Hormuz crisis.
The UAE condemns the sinking of an Indian-flagged cargo vessel in Omani waters after a suspected drone or missile strike, as disruption to Gulf shipping continues.
In Washington, a third round of talks between Lebanon and Israel begins as the ceasefire comes under increasing pressure.
And Abu Dhabi confirms plans for Sphere Abu Dhabi, a 1.7 billion dollar entertainment venue expected to open on Yas Island at the end of 2029.
Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
2 days ago
2 days ago
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump begins talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, with trade, Iran, energy and the Strait of Hormuz on the agenda.
We also look at rising tension in the Gulf after Iran demands the release of four suspected Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps operatives detained by Kuwait after an alleged infiltration attempt.
On Gaza, the diplomat overseeing the US-backed peace process warns Hamas is strengthening its grip and obstructing reconstruction efforts as concerns grow over the future of the ceasefire.
In the UAE, authorities announce new measures to combat money laundering and terrorism financing in the gold trade, one of the country’s largest economic sectors.
And the UAE becomes the first country in the world to approve Baxfendy, a new hypertension treatment described by doctors as a major breakthrough for patients with resistant high blood pressure.
Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
3 days ago
3 days ago
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump heads to Beijing for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, with Iran, energy and the Strait of Hormuz expected to dominate discussions.
We also look at growing pressure around the strait, as Washington signals it is prepared to maintain a prolonged blockade, while Russia and China oppose a US-backed UN resolution targeting Iran.
Across the Gulf, authorities intensify action against alleged Iran-linked operatives, with new sanctions, arrests and terrorism listings announced in the UAE, Bahrain and Kuwait.
Emaar founder Mohamed Alabbar says he is considering investments in Syria worth up to 18 billion dollars, as Damascus seeks to rebuild its economy after years of war and sanctions.
And a new report says trade and investment ties between the UAE and US have accelerated sharply since Mr Trump’s visit to the Emirates last year.
Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
4 days ago
4 days ago
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, analysis reviewed by The National shows nearly 100,000 civilian structures in southern Lebanon have been destroyed or damaged by Israel's campaign of "wanton destruction", with legal experts warning it could amount to a war crime.
We also look at an investigation into Houthi weapons networks in Yemen, where advanced missiles and drones linked to Iranian supply systems have been found.
Meanwhile, Iran warns it is prepared to respond to any new US attack, while President Donald Trump says the fragile ceasefire is on “massive life support”.
In Abu Dhabi, authorities launch Dh55 billion ($14.97 billion) worth of infrastructure and development projects across transport, health care and education.
And international health authorities are responding to a hantavirus outbreak linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship after passengers tested positive after travelling on to several countries.
Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
5 days ago
5 days ago
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump calls Iran’s response to American proposals for ending the conflict “totally unacceptable” as negotiations continue through Pakistan and tensions remain high around the Strait of Hormuz.
We also look at renewed drone attacks across the Gulf, including strikes intercepted by the UAE and an attack on a cargo vessel travelling towards Qatar.
In Lebanon, Hezbollah launches rockets at Israeli forces while Israeli air strikes kill dozens, despite ongoing ceasefire efforts and upcoming talks in Washington.
In Syria, a former Assad-era general faces trial over allegations of torture and attacks on civilians during the early years of the civil war.
And in the UAE, pupils return to classrooms after a week of remote learning introduced because of the Iranian missile threat.
Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
Friday May 08, 2026
Friday May 08, 2026
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran comes under renewed strain after both sides exchange fire near the Strait of Hormuz, while Washington waits for Tehran’s response to a proposed framework aimed at ending the conflict.
In the UAE, the Ministry of Defence says air defence systems have engaged with further drone and missile threats from Iran this morning. Authorities in the Emirates have established a national committee to document Iranian aggression and damage from attacks.
We also look at renewed diplomatic efforts between Lebanon and Israel, with a third round of US-backed talks scheduled to be held in Washington. But that will come after Israel launched its first strike on Beirut since a ceasefire came into force.
Meanwhile, Disney says plans for its theme park in Abu Dhabi – its first in the Middle East – remain on track despite the Iran war.
And Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, has officially opened the $190.6 million Khor Fakkan Resort. The project is expected to provide a major boost to tourism and investment in the emirate.
Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
Thursday May 07, 2026
Thursday May 07, 2026
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the world is awaiting Iran’s response to a US proposal aimed at ending the war, as Washington and Tehran move closer to a possible framework agreement covering sanctions, shipping and Iran’s nuclear programme.
We also look at France’s efforts to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz by sending the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier to the region and discussions on a new UN Security Council resolution.
In Lebanon, Israel launches strikes on Beirut for the first time in weeks despite a ceasefire, while clashes continue in the south.
The UAE rejects allegations by Sudan’s army-led government that it was involved in drone strikes on Khartoum airport, calling the claims deliberate propaganda.
And in Abu Dhabi, Tawazun Council and AD Ports Group launch a new defence industrial free zone aimed at expanding the UAE’s manufacturing and defence capabilities.
Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
Wednesday May 06, 2026
Wednesday May 06, 2026
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US pauses its “Project Freedom” escort mission in the Strait of Hormuz while maintaining its naval blockade on Iran, as mediation continues through Pakistan.
We also look at a new UN Security Council resolution drafted by the US and Gulf states aimed at protecting shipping routes and removing sea mines from the waterway.
In Washington, Secretary of State Marco Rubio says a peace deal between Lebanon and Israel appears achievable, despite continued attacks between Hezbollah and Israeli forces.
In the UAE, President Sheikh Mohamed praises the Armed Forces ahead of the 50th anniversary of their unification, following missile and drone attacks linked to the Iran conflict.
And in Fujairah, the first completed Etihad Rail passenger station is unveiled ahead of the launch of passenger services later this year.
Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
Tuesday May 05, 2026
Tuesday May 05, 2026
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, tensions are rising around the Strait of Hormuz after renewed Iranian attacks on the UAE, drawing widespread international condemnation.
We look at the UAE’s response, including intercepted missiles and drone strikes that caused damage in Fujairah, as officials warn the country will not be intimidated.
In the Strait of Hormuz, maritime incidents continue, with reports of vessel strikes and disruptions following the US announcement it would escort stranded ships through the waterway.
The impact of the escalation is being felt more widely, with oil prices shifting, flights stabilising after limited disruption, and schools in the UAE moving to distance learning as a precaution.
Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
Monday May 04, 2026
Monday May 04, 2026
In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US prepares to begin escorting foreign vessels through the Strait of Hormuz under a new initiative aimed at easing pressure on global shipping.
In Tehran, Iran says it has received a US response to its 14-point peace proposal aimed at ending the war within 30 days.
In Abu Dhabi, policymakers and industry leaders gather for the Make it in the Emirates summit, expected to generate billions in industrial agreements focused on supply-chain resilience.
Adnoc also announces plans to award Dh200 billion ($55 billion) in contracts over the next three years, signalling a major investment push in the UAE’s energy sector following its exit from Opec.
And in Dubai, tunnelling begins on the Metro Blue Line, part of a wider transport expansion that includes the planned Gold Line, as the city continues to build for long-term growth.
Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.