Stories from Abu Dhabi · UAE

An Emirati official stated that Israel utilized the Iron Dome air defense system during the recent conflict. A delegation following Iraq's visit to Muscat is discussing protocols regarding the Hormuz Strait and transit fees. The proposal follows Araghchi's recent visit to Muscat. This maritime restriction continues to serve as a primary obstacle in ongoing peace negotiations between the U.S. The situation remains a major sticking point for diplomatic progress in the Middle East. This proposal aims to integrate the protocol into any potential future agreement with the United States. The move seeks to formalize transit and security standards in the strategic waterway. Al Jazeera Arabic reports that Tehran is pursuing a diplomatic path with the United States to rebuild relations following the war, though the outcome remains uncertain.

US-Iran negotiations are reportedly stalled as neither side appears willing to make the necessary concessions. US envoys Witkoff and Kushner's Saturday morning trip to Islamabad to negotiate with Iran was halted by President Trump. The assailant is currently in custody facing charges of assault and terrorism. Authorities are working to determine the motives behind the attack.

Missiles have struck military and civilian targets in the United Arab Emirates during the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. Two American flag merchant ships have successfully transited through the Strait, according to the military. The incident involved a strike on a structure belonging to a company, according to reports. The strike was reported via the Oman News Agency. The United Arab Emirates Ministry of Defense reported the detection of four missiles traveling from the direction of Iran. Three of the missiles were successfully intercepted over the maritime border, while one missile fell into the sea. The event occurred on May 5. Schools in the UAE have announced a transition to remote learning for the next four days following the detection. The source stated there is no panic in the region despite the incident.

For the first time in a century, Iran's Revolutionary Guard has altered the inscription on its missiles during military parades. Instead of targeting the traditional adversaries America and Israel, the missiles are now marked for gas facilities in Ras al-Fann.

Iranian negotiators are reportedly approaching talks from a tactical perspective, prioritizing immediate advantages rather than long-term outcomes.

Iranian religious thought is described as drawing heavily from ancient Zoroastrianism, influenced by Hinduism and Buddhism. This ideology centers on a fundamental conflict between good and evil, or light and darkness. This dualistic framework is seen as informing the revolutionary narrative that casts America and Israel as embodiments of darkness.

Sky News Arabia Radio discussed Lebanon's ability to control its political and security decisions, particularly in relation to foreign demands. The report questions whether Lebanon can implement requests without militias or armed factions influencing state decisions. The ability of Lebanon to assert its sovereignty is under scrutiny.

Discussions regarding a potential agreement between the United States and Iran are underway, but are noted to exclude Gulf Cooperation Council countries and Jordan. These nations are considered affected parties and their national interests must be considered.

Discussions between Iran and Pakistan involved the Iranian envoy presenting information that addresses queries and requests from the Pakistani Army Chief. This envoy's communications are reportedly being relayed directly to the US. The context suggests ongoing diplomatic efforts concerning regional security.

The United Arab Emirates is transitioning from importing medicines to developing domestic capabilities for drug innovation and production. The UAE has increased local manufacturing of essential goods to reduce foreign dependency and enhance economic security, with local production reaching approximately 12%. In operational efficiency, digital customs systems achieved 99.7% readiness and can handle 7% more operational time. Sultan Al Jaber, the UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and CEO of ADNOC, stated that the company is entering a critical stage of strategic implementation. The announcement follows the UAE's recent formal exit from OPEC and OPEC+. The move aims to consolidate and expand the industrial and manufacturing base of the United Arab Emirates. Industrial exports for the country recorded a record value of 262 billion dirhams during 2025.