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As of March 1, 2026, key Middle Eastern airports including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha remain closed following US and Israeli strikes that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iran retaliated with missile attacks damaging Dubai International Airport and others. Thousands of flights are canceled or rerouted, stranding travelers worldwide and causing widespread aviation disruption.
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The US has issued warnings to its citizens in Middle Eastern countries, advising shelter in place due to escalating tensions and imminent military actions. The US President announced plans to target Iran's missile and naval capabilities, amid ongoing diplomatic negotiations and regional instability.
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Fighting between rival factions in Yemen has led to the suspension of flights from Socotra, stranding around 600 tourists. Yemenia Airways plans to operate flights to Jeddah to evacuate foreigners amid escalating conflict involving UAE-backed separatists and Saudi-backed government forces.
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Nestlé has recalled specific batches of its SMA infant formula due to potential contamination with cereulide toxin, which is heat-resistant and can cause nausea, vomiting, and cramps in infants. The recall affects over 25 countries, including South Africa, with no confirmed illnesses reported. Authorities advise parents to check product batches and seek medical advice if concerned.
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Yemen's southern conflict escalates as UAE-backed separatists, led by Aidrous Al-Zubaidi, seize territory and threaten independence, prompting Saudi Arabia to counter with military force. The disappearance of Yemen's STC leader, Aidrous Al-Zubaidi, after a delayed flight adds to regional tensions amid ongoing fighting and political instability.
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The Southern Transitional Council (STC) announced its disbandment after a delegation in Riyadh was reportedly detained or coerced. The move follows weeks of clashes and regional tensions involving Saudi Arabia and the UAE, with the leader Aidarous al-Zubaidi fleeing Yemen amid ongoing conflict.
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Supporters of Yemen's Southern Transitional Council (STC) protested in Aden, demanding independence after the group announced its dissolution following a Saudi-led military intervention. The protests highlight ongoing regional tensions, internal divisions within the separatist movement, and the fragile state of Yemen's civil conflict amid shifting alliances and regional pressures.
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Aidarous al-Zubaidi, leader of Yemen's Southern Transitional Council, escaped from Yemen amid political turmoil. He traveled via Somaliland and Somalia to Abu Dhabi after being accused of high treason and removed from Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council. The move highlights deepening Gulf rivalries and Yemen's ongoing conflict.
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The Southern Transitional Council (STC) announced its dissolution to maintain peace in Yemen's south amid internal splits and regional tensions. The group's leader Aidarous al-Zubaidi fled Yemen, allegedly helped by UAE forces, after skipping talks in Riyadh aimed at ending the crisis. The move reflects ongoing Saudi-UAE rivalry.
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Yemen's political and tribal leaders convened in Riyadh to discuss unifying the south amid ongoing conflict. The meeting follows recent military clashes, the dissolution of the Southern Transitional Council (STC), and regional tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE over influence and territorial control. Saudi-backed government aims to restore stability and prepare for future negotiations.
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The UAE has restricted funding for Emirati students studying in the UK, citing concerns over radicalisation linked to the Muslim Brotherhood. The move follows the UAE's long-standing opposition to the group, which it designates as a terrorist organisation, and reflects broader geopolitical tensions and influence campaigns.
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Multiple countries in the Middle East and Africa are advancing AI strategies and financial reforms. The UK plans to re-establish a civil service training school focused on AI, Nigeria is launching a microfinance bank leveraging payment data, and Arab nations are investing heavily in AI infrastructure and regulation amid geopolitical shifts.
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President Trump announced an immediate 25% tariff on all countries doing business with Iran, citing economic collapse and protests. Iran warns of war, while US threats of military action persist. The move aims to pressure Iran over its nuclear and military programs amid ongoing protests and international tensions.
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On January 13, 2026, the US designated the Lebanese Muslim Brotherhood as a Foreign Terrorist Organization and the Egyptian and Jordanian branches as Specially Designated Global Terrorists. The move targets their alleged support for Hamas and rocket attacks on Israel, imposing sanctions and travel bans amid regional tensions.
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Somalia has annulled all agreements with the UAE amid regional tensions following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland and allegations of UAE involvement. Mogadishu accuses the UAE of undermining sovereignty, while Somaliland and Puntland reject the move. The decision reflects deepening regional conflicts and shifting alliances in the Horn of Africa.
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As of January 22, 2026, the US is weighing military options against Iran following a brutal crackdown on protests that has killed thousands. President Trump has threatened decisive strikes, while Iran warns of retaliatory attacks on US and Israeli targets. The US has repositioned forces in the Middle East, including withdrawing personnel from Qatar's Al Udeid base, amid fears of imminent conflict.
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Yemen's Prime Minister submitted his resignation amid ongoing Gulf disputes over southern separatists and control of the country. Saudi Arabia and the UAE are clashing over Yemen's future, with recent military and political moves highlighting deepening Gulf rivalries. The new government is to be formed soon.
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Umer Khalid, linked to Palestine Action and suffering from muscular dystrophy, ended his 16-day hunger strike after medical emergency. He demands bail, prison reforms, and transparency over UK military actions in Gaza. His health remains critically at risk as he refuses food and water.
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Since April 2023, Sudan's civil war between the army and RSF has caused over 11 million displacements and tens of thousands of deaths. Recent clashes in North Darfur and Kordofan have intensified, with widespread destruction, displacement, and reports of atrocities. The UN warns of a deepening humanitarian emergency.
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On January 22, 2026, former President Donald Trump officially launched the 'Board of Peace' at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Initially aimed at overseeing Gaza's reconstruction post-conflict, the board's remit has expanded to address global conflicts. Trump will chair the board for life, with membership requiring a $1 billion fee for permanent status. The initiative has drawn mixed international reactions, with some countries joining and others, including key European allies, declining over concerns it may undermine the United Nations.
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The US-led Board of Peace, chaired by Donald Trump, has announced a comprehensive plan to oversee Gaza's reconstruction, disarm Hamas, and establish a new governance structure. The plan involves international leadership, Palestinian technocrats, and significant investment, aiming for long-term stability and economic growth in Gaza.
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Recent tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE over Yemen have escalated, with accusations of secret prisons, military support, and regional destabilization. Saudi officials claim the UAE has withdrawn from Yemen, but allegations of covert operations persist amid ongoing Gulf rivalry.
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Rifaat al-Assad, a key figure in Syria's Assad regime and brother of Hafez al-Assad, died in the United Arab Emirates at age 88. He was involved in the 1970 coup, the Hama massacre, and faced war crimes charges. He returned to Syria in 2021 before fleeing again in 2024 after Bashar al-Assad's ouster.
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Rifaat al-Assad, a key figure in Syria's history and known for his role in the 1982 Hama massacre, has died in the United Arab Emirates at age 88. His death follows years of exile and legal challenges related to war crimes and corruption. His legacy remains controversial.
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Former President Trump announced the creation of a new Board of Peace, aiming to oversee a 20-point plan for Gaza and broader conflicts. He claims the board may replace the UN's role, with initial focus on disarming Hamas and stabilizing Gaza. Several countries, including Russia, have been invited to join.
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President Trump announced a new international peace board at Davos, involving 35 countries including Israel and Russia, to oversee Gaza reconstruction. Several allies, including France, Norway, and Sweden, have declined to join amid concerns over Russian involvement and the board's potential to replace the UN. UK and European nations express skepticism.
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Tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE have intensified, with Saudi pushing for regional security alliances and Yemen projects, while the UAE faces setbacks in Yemen and Horn of Africa. Recent developments include Saudi's push for a Pakistan-Turkey security pact and increased regional influence efforts.
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On January 23, 2026, President Donald Trump withdrew Canada's invitation to join his newly launched Board of Peace following Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's critical speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Carney condemned economic coercion by great powers and urged middle powers to unite against U.S. hegemony. Trump responded by emphasizing Canada's dependence on the U.S. and revoked the invitation, escalating tensions amid ongoing trade disputes.
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The Dubai-based Al Habtoor Group announced it will cease operations in Lebanon, citing ongoing instability, legal disputes, and losses exceeding $1.7 billion. The decision follows years of economic meltdown, conflict damage, and restrictions on access to funds, with legal action imminent amid deteriorating business conditions.
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The US Treasury imposed sanctions on nine vessels and eight firms linked to Iran's shadow fleet, aiming to disrupt Iran's oil revenue amid ongoing tensions over protests and regional security. The move targets vessels transporting Iranian oil to foreign markets, with broader efforts to weaken Iran's regional proxies.
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The US has increased military presence in the Middle East, including an aircraft carrier and warships, amid escalating tensions with Iran. President Trump warned Iran against restarting its nuclear program and cracking down on protests, while Iran warns any attack would be considered an all-out war. The situation remains volatile as both sides prepare for potential conflict.
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Iran and the US will hold nuclear negotiations in Istanbul on Friday, amid heightened tensions. The US has deployed a large naval fleet near Iran, with President Trump warning of possible conflict if a deal isn't reached. Regional countries advocate for de-escalation, while Iran emphasizes its missile capabilities are non-negotiable.
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A planned $100 billion investment deal between Nvidia and OpenAI has fallen apart amid reports of internal doubts and dissatisfaction with Nvidia's chips. Both companies deny tension, but the deal's collapse raises questions about AI infrastructure funding and industry confidence as OpenAI explores alternatives.
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The Houthis in Yemen approved flights for aid access in February after a month-long blockade, but recent actions include seizing UN offices and equipment, worsening the humanitarian crisis. The UN warns of increased suffering amid ongoing conflict and restrictions.
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Iran has announced a live fire drill in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, prompting warnings from the US military about potential risks. The drill involves Iran's Revolutionary Guard amid ongoing regional tensions over energy routes. The US warns against unsafe behavior near its forces and vessels. The incident is under investigation.
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Iran accuses the US, Israel, and European nations of provoking and dividing its recent protests, which have resulted in thousands of deaths. Tehran claims protests were manipulated by foreign interests, while the US and allies threaten military action amid ongoing tensions.
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Since the October 2025 ceasefire in Gaza, violence has persisted with Israeli forces killing over 580 Palestinians and Hamas militants attacking Israeli troops. Recent clashes include Israeli strikes on Hamas commanders and militants emerging from tunnels near Rafah. Indonesia is preparing up to 8,000 troops for a potential peacekeeping mission in Gaza, while the Rafah crossing with Egypt has reopened, allowing limited civilian movement.
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Multiple articles reveal that days before Trump's 2025 return to office, a senior Emirati official invested $500 million in a Trump-linked crypto firm, raising questions about foreign influence, potential conflicts of interest, and US policy reversals on AI chip exports to the UAE.
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Recent satellite images and reports reveal Ethiopia's involvement in Sudan's civil war, with a camp in Benishangul-Gumuz allegedly financed by the UAE. The camp trains RSF fighters, escalating regional tensions amid ongoing conflict and refugee flows. The story highlights Ethiopia's strategic role and potential destabilization.
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Spain plans to ban social media for minors under 16, requiring platforms to enforce age verification. The move aims to address concerns over harmful content and mental health, aligning with similar measures in Australia, France, and other European countries. Legislation could pass next week.
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Mozambique and Egypt deepen cooperation with the UAE, focusing on environmental projects, digital transformation, and infrastructure. Mozambique aims to industrialize agriculture sustainably, while Egypt and Turkey expand trade and energy collaboration. South Africa emphasizes educational partnerships with China. These developments signal strategic regional shifts.
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Since April 2023, Sudan's war between the military and RSF has caused tens of thousands of deaths and displaced over 11 million. The UN, US, and UAE are coordinating efforts for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid, amid ongoing clashes and accusations of foreign support for the RSF.
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Saudi Arabia and the UAE remain diplomatically strained since December, with Bahrain mediating efforts to bridge the gap. Egypt is also involved, seeking to contain regional conflicts over Yemen, Sudan, and Somalia. The situation highlights ongoing Gulf rivalries and regional instability as of February 15, 2026.
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German leader Merz is on a tour of the Gulf, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, aiming to diversify alliances, boost energy imports, and strengthen security cooperation amid shifting global power dynamics and US policy uncertainties. The trip emphasizes arms, energy, and regional stability efforts.
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Since the October 2025 US-brokered ceasefire, Gaza remains volatile with over 570 Palestinians killed amid ongoing Israeli strikes and militant attacks. A US-led peace plan aims to demilitarize Hamas and establish technocratic governance, but progress stalls as Israel restricts Gaza access and Hamas resists disarmament. The Rafah crossing partially reopened, yet reconstruction and security remain unresolved.
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Recent attacks by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan have resulted in civilian casualties, including children, and increased displacement. The conflict, ongoing since April 2023, has caused thousands of deaths, widespread famine, and a severe humanitarian crisis across regions like North Kordofan and Darfur.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Malaysia for the first time in over a decade, where he signed multiple agreements with Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim. The deals focus on renewable energy, healthcare, AI, and semiconductor cooperation, aiming to strengthen bilateral trade and strategic partnership.
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On February 19, 2026, the inaugural Board of Peace meeting chaired by former US President Donald Trump convened in Washington, D.C., with delegations from over 20 countries including Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. The meeting aimed to raise billions for Gaza's reconstruction and discuss deploying an international stabilization force amid ongoing ceasefire violations and political tensions.
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Lt. Gen. Vladimir Alexeyev, deputy head of Russia's GRU military intelligence, was shot in Moscow. Russia claims Ukraine orchestrated the attack, with a suspect detained in Dubai. Ukraine denies involvement. The incident follows a pattern of high-profile assassinations amid ongoing tensions.
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Regional tensions in the Horn of Africa have intensified as Gulf states, notably the UAE and Saudi Arabia, deepen their influence amid regional conflicts. The UAE backs Somaliland and invests heavily in ports, while Saudi Arabia builds alliances with Somalia and Egypt. These rivalries threaten regional stability and involve military, diplomatic, and economic maneuvers.