West Asia War Updates: Dubai airport briefly closed
Dubai briefly closed its main airport, a key global transport hub, after an unidentified object was intercepted nearby. The UAE said it was targeted with 16 ballistic missiles and more than 120 drones on Saturday. (AFP)

West Asia War Updates: Dubai airport briefly closed
Dubai briefly closed its main airport, a key global transport hub, after an unidentified object was intercepted nearby. The UAE said it was targeted with 16 ballistic missiles and more than 120 drones on Saturday. (AFP)

West Asia War Updates: UAE reports new Iran drone and missile attacks
The United Arab Emirates reported new missile and drone attacks on Saturday as Iran continued its retaliatory strikes across the Gulf. "UAE air defences are currently responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran," the defence ministry said. "Sounds heard are the result of the Air Defence Systems intercepting missiles and drones." (AFP)

West Asia War Updates: UAE reports new Iran drone and missile attacks
The United Arab Emirates reported new missile and drone attacks on Saturday as Iran continued its retaliatory strikes across the Gulf. "UAE air defences are currently responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran," the defence ministry said. "Sounds heard are the result of the Air Defence Systems intercepting missiles and drones." (AFP)

West Asia War Updates: US evacuates 28,000 citizens from Middle East
More than 28,000 American citizens have safely returned to the US from the Middle East since late February, the State Department said on Saturday, as Washington continues large-scale evacuation and assistance efforts across the region. In a statement, Assistant Secretary of State Dylan Johnson said the US government had been coordinating flights, ground transport, and emergency assistance to help Americans leave the region amid ongoing security concerns. (IANS)&nbsp;

West Asia War Updates: US evacuates 28,000 citizens from Middle East
More than 28,000 American citizens have safely returned to the US from the Middle East since late February, the State Department said on Saturday, as Washington continues large-scale evacuation and assistance efforts across the region. In a statement, Assistant Secretary of State Dylan Johnson said the US government had been coordinating flights, ground transport, and emergency assistance to help Americans leave the region amid ongoing security concerns. (IANS)&nbsp;

West Asia War Updates: Oil and gas prices rapidly rise as Iran war shows no signs of letting up The price of oil surged higher and showed no signs of halting its rapid climb a week after the US and Israel launched major attacks on Iran that escalated into a war in the Middle East. The conflict, in which nearly every country in the Middle East has sustained damage from missiles or drone strikes, has left ships that carry roughly 20 million barrels of oil a day stranded in the Persian Gulf, unable to safely pass through the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow mouth of the Gulf that is bordered on its north side by Iran. (AP)

West Asia War Updates: Oil and gas prices rapidly rise as Iran war shows no signs of letting upThe price of oil surged higher and showed no signs of halting its rapid climb a week after the US and Israel launched major attacks on Iran that escalated into a war in the Middle East. The conflict, in which nearly every country in the Middle East has sustained damage from missiles or drone strikes, has left ships that carry roughly 20 million barrels of oil a day stranded in the Persian Gulf, unable to safely pass through the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow mouth of the Gulf that is bordered on its north side by Iran. (AP) 

West Asia War Updates: Iran FM accuses US of attacking desalination plant on Gulf island
Iran`s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the United States on Saturday of attacking a desalination plant on a Gulf island, saying it had set a precedent. "The US committed a blatant and desperate crime by attacking a freshwater desalination plant on Qeshm Island," said Araghchi in a post on X. (AFP)

West Asia War Updates: Iran FM accuses US of attacking desalination plant on Gulf island
Iran`s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the United States on Saturday of attacking a desalination plant on a Gulf island, saying it had set a precedent. "The US committed a blatant and desperate crime by attacking a freshwater desalination plant on Qeshm Island," said Araghchi in a post on X. (AFP)

West Asia War Updates:&nbsp;Israel says struck 16 Revolutionary Guards aircraft at Tehran airport Israel`s military said on Saturday it had struck 16 Iranian aircraft at Tehran`s Mehrabad International Airport, which it said was a key hub for the Islamic republic`s Revolutionary Guards. "Overnight, the Israeli Air Force... completed a broad wave of strikes across Tehran and on military infrastructure located at the `Merabad Airport` in Tehran", it said in a statement. (AFP)

West Asia War Updates:&nbsp;Israel says struck 16 Revolutionary Guards aircraft at Tehran airportIsrael`s military said on Saturday it had struck 16 Iranian aircraft at Tehran`s Mehrabad International Airport, which it said was a key hub for the Islamic republic`s Revolutionary Guards. "Overnight, the Israeli Air Force... completed a broad wave of strikes across Tehran and on military infrastructure located at the `Merabad Airport` in Tehran", it said in a statement. (AFP)

West Asia War Updates: Qatar will start supplying crude to India once route is open: Govt sources
Amid a severe energy crisis currently unfolding in the Middle East, Government sources have revealed that Qatar has provided specific guarantees regarding supply continuity, noting, "We are assured by Qatar that they will start supplying to India on the very first minute once the route is open." This is complemented by a global interest in supplying the Indian market, as officials said that "We have surplus stock of LNG" and "We have got offer of LNG from a large number of countries."

West Asia War Updates: Qatar will start supplying crude to India once route is open: Govt sources
Amid a severe energy crisis currently unfolding in the Middle East, Government sources have revealed that Qatar has provided specific guarantees regarding supply continuity, noting, "We are assured by Qatar that they will start supplying to India on the very first minute once the route is open." This is complemented by a global interest in supplying the Indian market, as officials said that "We have surplus stock of LNG" and "We have got offer of LNG from a large number of countries."

West Asia War Updates: J&amp;K: CPI-M MLA Tarigami appeals to Centre to condemn US-Israeli aggression on Iran
Senior CPI-M leader and Kulgam MLA M Y Tarigami on Saturday appealed to the Centre to condemn the US-Israeli aggression on Iran, saying Tehran and New Delhi shared traditional relations and had supported each other in difficult times. "I want to appeal to the government of India that we have traditional relations with Iran and have supported each other in difficult times. But today, I do not know why, we are either silent or taking sides. I am pained at what our own people are doing. I want to appeal to the leadership of our country that it should condemn this barbarism and the agenda of genocide of the US and Israel," Tarigami told reporters. India should also work to stop the war, he added.

West Asia War Updates: J&amp;K: CPI-M MLA Tarigami appeals to Centre to condemn US-Israeli aggression on Iran
Senior CPI-M leader and Kulgam MLA M Y Tarigami on Saturday appealed to the Centre to condemn the US-Israeli aggression on Iran, saying Tehran and New Delhi shared traditional relations and had supported each other in difficult times. "I want to appeal to the government of India that we have traditional relations with Iran and have supported each other in difficult times. But today, I do not know why, we are either silent or taking sides. I am pained at what our own people are doing. I want to appeal to the leadership of our country that it should condemn this barbarism and the agenda of genocide of the US and Israel," Tarigami told reporters. India should also work to stop the war, he added.

West Asia War Updates: Trump will join grieving families for return of soldiers killed in war in Middle East
President Donald Trump plans to join grieving families at Dover Air Force Base on Saturday at the dignified transfer for the six U.S. soldiers killed in the war in the Middle East. The dignified transfer, a ritual that returns the remains of U.S. service members killed in action, is considered one of the most somber duties of any commander in chief. During his first term, Trump said bearing witness to the transfer was "the toughest thing I have to do" as president. On his social media platform Friday night, Trump wrote: "I will be going to Dover Air Force Base tomorrow, with the First Lady and Members of my Cabinet, to pay our Highest Respect to our Great Warriors, who are returning home for the last time. GOD BLESS THEM ALL!"

West Asia War Updates: Trump will join grieving families for return of soldiers killed in war in Middle East
President Donald Trump plans to join grieving families at Dover Air Force Base on Saturday at the dignified transfer for the six U.S. soldiers killed in the war in the Middle East. The dignified transfer, a ritual that returns the remains of U.S. service members killed in action, is considered one of the most somber duties of any commander in chief. During his first term, Trump said bearing witness to the transfer was "the toughest thing I have to do" as president. On his social media platform Friday night, Trump wrote: "I will be going to Dover Air Force Base tomorrow, with the First Lady and Members of my Cabinet, to pay our Highest Respect to our Great Warriors, who are returning home for the last time. GOD BLESS THEM ALL!"

West Asia War Updates: Hezbollah issues evacuation warning to northern Israel
Lebanon`s militant Hezbollah group issued a warning on Saturday for the residents of the northern Israeli towns of Kiryat Shmona and Nahariya to evacuate immediately. Shortly after the Hezbollah warning was issued, alert sirens sounded near Nahariya, Kiryat Shmona and Tiberias. Hezbollah`s warning came after Israel`s military ordered people in large parts of southern Lebanon and the southern suburbs of Beirut to evacuate. The warnings made tens of thousands flee their homes and were followed by intense airstrikes.

West Asia War Updates: Hezbollah issues evacuation warning to northern Israel
Lebanon`s militant Hezbollah group issued a warning on Saturday for the residents of the northern Israeli towns of Kiryat Shmona and Nahariya to evacuate immediately. Shortly after the Hezbollah warning was issued, alert sirens sounded near Nahariya, Kiryat Shmona and Tiberias. Hezbollah`s warning came after Israel`s military ordered people in large parts of southern Lebanon and the southern suburbs of Beirut to evacuate. The warnings made tens of thousands flee their homes and were followed by intense airstrikes.

West Asia War Updates: Lebanese health officials say at least 41 people killed, 40 wounded in overnight Israeli airstrikes
Lebanon`s Health Ministry says Israeli airstrikes on the eastern town of Nabi Chit and nearby areas have left 41 dead and 40 wounded. The area witnessed intense clashes and airstrikes overnight into Saturday after an Israeli force landed there and clashed with local gunmen. The Lebanese army said the dead included three of its troops. The Israeli force was looking for information about Israeli navigator Ron Arad, who went missing after his fighter jet crashed in Lebanon 40 years ago. The Israeli military said it did not find Arad`s remains.

West Asia War Updates: Lebanese health officials say at least 41 people killed, 40 wounded in overnight Israeli airstrikes
Lebanon`s Health Ministry says Israeli airstrikes on the eastern town of Nabi Chit and nearby areas have left 41 dead and 40 wounded. The area witnessed intense clashes and airstrikes overnight into Saturday after an Israeli force landed there and clashed with local gunmen. The Lebanese army said the dead included three of its troops. The Israeli force was looking for information about Israeli navigator Ron Arad, who went missing after his fighter jet crashed in Lebanon 40 years ago. The Israeli military said it did not find Arad`s remains.

West Asia War Updates: Israel hammers Beirut, Tehran as Iranian president apologises to Gulf neighbours
Iran`s president rejected a demand by the United States for an unconditional surrender on Saturday and apologised for Iran`s attacks on regional countries, as Israel and the United States kept up their airstrikes targeting the Islamic Republic. Gulf countries say they have intercepted more ballistic missiles and drones launched from Iran. Saudi Arabia said it stopped four drones attacking the country`s massive Shaybah oil field, the second attack within hours. Flights in and out of Dubai International Airport were interrupted after passengers were ushered down into train tunnels as several blasts were heard and the alert sounded. Meanwhile, Israeli warplanes hammered Beirut and Tehran. Death toll continued to rise Saturday with at least 1,230 people killed in Iran, more than 200 in Lebanon and around a dozen in Israel, according to officials. Six US troops were reported killed. US President Donald Trump`s administration approved a new USD 151 million arms sale to Israel after Trump said he would not negotiate with Iran without its "unconditional surrender."

West Asia War Updates: Israel hammers Beirut, Tehran as Iranian president apologises to Gulf neighbours
Iran`s president rejected a demand by the United States for an unconditional surrender on Saturday and apologised for Iran`s attacks on regional countries, as Israel and the United States kept up their airstrikes targeting the Islamic Republic. Gulf countries say they have intercepted more ballistic missiles and drones launched from Iran. Saudi Arabia said it stopped four drones attacking the country`s massive Shaybah oil field, the second attack within hours. Flights in and out of Dubai International Airport were interrupted after passengers were ushered down into train tunnels as several blasts were heard and the alert sounded. Meanwhile, Israeli warplanes hammered Beirut and Tehran. Death toll continued to rise Saturday with at least 1,230 people killed in Iran, more than 200 in Lebanon and around a dozen in Israel, according to officials. Six US troops were reported killed. US President Donald Trump`s administration approved a new USD 151 million arms sale to Israel after Trump said he would not negotiate with Iran without its "unconditional surrender."

West Asia War Updates: Iran thanks India for humanitarian support to Iranian ship IRIS Lavan
Iran has formally expressed gratitude to India for providing a safe harbour to its naval vessel IRIS Lavan, docked at Kochi port to undertake technical and logistical arrangements following the incident involving another Iranian naval vessel, IRIS Dena, in the Indian Ocean amidst a rapidly escalating conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. In an exclusive interview with ANI, Iran`s Ambassador to India Mohammad Fathali said that the Islamic Republic of Iran is closely monitoring the situation after the tragic incident involving IRIS Dena and is continuing efforts to assess the circumstances and ensure the well-being of the crew members.

West Asia War Updates: Iran thanks India for humanitarian support to Iranian ship IRIS Lavan
Iran has formally expressed gratitude to India for providing a safe harbour to its naval vessel IRIS Lavan, docked at Kochi port to undertake technical and logistical arrangements following the incident involving another Iranian naval vessel, IRIS Dena, in the Indian Ocean amidst a rapidly escalating conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. In an exclusive interview with ANI, Iran`s Ambassador to India Mohammad Fathali said that the Islamic Republic of Iran is closely monitoring the situation after the tragic incident involving IRIS Dena and is continuing efforts to assess the circumstances and ensure the well-being of the crew members.

West Asia War Updates: Mehbooba seeks release of people arrested for `peaceful` protests against Khamenei`s killing
Peoples Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday urged the Jammu and Kashmir Police to release those arrested for staging protests in the Valley against the killing of Iran`s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israel strike on February 28. "Scores of protesters, including women, have been arrested across Kashmir for peacefully participating in rallies in the wake of Ayatollah Ali Khomeini`s martyrdom.

West Asia War Updates: Mehbooba seeks release of people arrested for `peaceful` protests against Khamenei`s killing
Peoples Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday urged the Jammu and Kashmir Police to release those arrested for staging protests in the Valley against the killing of Iran`s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israel strike on February 28. "Scores of protesters, including women, have been arrested across Kashmir for peacefully participating in rallies in the wake of Ayatollah Ali Khomeini`s martyrdom.

West Asia War Updates: Govt provides certain relaxations to exporters to meet obligations
The government has granted certain relaxations to exporters in fulfilling their export obligations, as the trading community is facing difficulties in the movement of goods due to the ongoing West Asia crisis, according to a notification. "In view of the prevailing geo-political developments affecting international shipping routes and global supply chains, and with a view to facilitating exporters, the export obligation (EO) period/block wise EO period in respect of specified advance authorisations and EPCG authorisations expiring between March 1, 2026 and May 31, 2026 has been automatically extended up to August 31, 2026 without payment of composition fee," the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has said in a public notice.

West Asia War Updates: Govt provides certain relaxations to exporters to meet obligations
The government has granted certain relaxations to exporters in fulfilling their export obligations, as the trading community is facing difficulties in the movement of goods due to the ongoing West Asia crisis, according to a notification. "In view of the prevailing geo-political developments affecting international shipping routes and global supply chains, and with a view to facilitating exporters, the export obligation (EO) period/block wise EO period in respect of specified advance authorisations and EPCG authorisations expiring between March 1, 2026 and May 31, 2026 has been automatically extended up to August 31, 2026 without payment of composition fee," the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has said in a public notice.

West Asia War Updates: Mehbooba Mufti urges PM to evacuate J-K students stranded in Iran
Peoples` Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure the safe return of students from Jammu and Kashmir stranded in Iran. In a post on X, Mufti, a former chief minister of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, said that as the situation rapidly deteriorates in Iran, thousands of students from the Union territory studying there are currently stranded.

West Asia War Updates: Mehbooba Mufti urges PM to evacuate J-K students stranded in Iran
Peoples` Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure the safe return of students from Jammu and Kashmir stranded in Iran. In a post on X, Mufti, a former chief minister of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, said that as the situation rapidly deteriorates in Iran, thousands of students from the Union territory studying there are currently stranded.

West Asia War Updates: Long-haul carrier Emirates says all flights to, from Dubai have been suspended until further notice` after Iranian attack
Long-haul carrier Emirates on Saturday said that "`all flights to and from Dubai have been suspended until further notice" after an Iranian attack earlier in the morning. Passengers at Dubai International Airport, the world`s busiest for international travel, heard a boom while sheltering in train tunnels at the massive facility. Emirates has been trying to get its sprawling travel network up and running after several days of halting flights over the war.

West Asia War Updates: Long-haul carrier Emirates says all flights to, from Dubai have been suspended until further notice` after Iranian attack
Long-haul carrier Emirates on Saturday said that "`all flights to and from Dubai have been suspended until further notice" after an Iranian attack earlier in the morning. Passengers at Dubai International Airport, the world`s busiest for international travel, heard a boom while sheltering in train tunnels at the massive facility. Emirates has been trying to get its sprawling travel network up and running after several days of halting flights over the war.

West Asia War Updates: Pak`s CDF Munir meets Saudi defence minister amidst escalating regional tensions
Amidst escalating tensions in West Asia, Pakistan`s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir travelled to Saudi Arabia and met Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman to discuss the security situation. Saudi Arabia has come under attacks by Iran, putting in cross hairs the mutual defence pact signed between Islamabad and Riyadh last year. The countries are bound by the agreement to come to the defence of each other in case of attack by a third country.

West Asia War Updates: Pak`s CDF Munir meets Saudi defence minister amidst escalating regional tensions
Amidst escalating tensions in West Asia, Pakistan`s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir travelled to Saudi Arabia and met Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman to discuss the security situation. Saudi Arabia has come under attacks by Iran, putting in cross hairs the mutual defence pact signed between Islamabad and Riyadh last year. The countries are bound by the agreement to come to the defence of each other in case of attack by a third country.

West Asia War Updates: Lebanese health officials say at least 16 people killed, 35 wounded in overnight Israeli airstrikes
Lebanese health officials said on Saturday that Israeli airstrikes killed at least 16 people and wounded 35 others in overnight Israeli airstrikes in the mountain town of Nabi Chit. The Lebanese Health Ministry offered the figure. The Iranian-backed militant group Hezbollah said its fighters clashed with an Israeli force that landed late Friday in the mountains of eastern Lebanon. Israel has yet to comment on the fighting there.

West Asia War Updates: Lebanese health officials say at least 16 people killed, 35 wounded in overnight Israeli airstrikes
Lebanese health officials said on Saturday that Israeli airstrikes killed at least 16 people and wounded 35 others in overnight Israeli airstrikes in the mountain town of Nabi Chit. The Lebanese Health Ministry offered the figure. The Iranian-backed militant group Hezbollah said its fighters clashed with an Israeli force that landed late Friday in the mountains of eastern Lebanon. Israel has yet to comment on the fighting there.

West Asia War Updates: Iran`s president defies US demands but apologises for strikes on neighbours
Iran`s president said on Saturday that a demand by the United States for an unconditional surrender is a "dream that they should to take to their grave." President Masoud Pezeshkian made the statement in a prerecorded address aired by state television. He also apologised for Iran`s attacks on regional countries, insisting that Tehran would halt them and suggesting they were caused by miscommunication in the ranks. His statement aired after repeated attacks on Saturday morning on Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

West Asia War Updates: Iran`s president defies US demands but apologises for strikes on neighbours
Iran`s president said on Saturday that a demand by the United States for an unconditional surrender is a "dream that they should to take to their grave." President Masoud Pezeshkian made the statement in a prerecorded address aired by state television. He also apologised for Iran`s attacks on regional countries, insisting that Tehran would halt them and suggesting they were caused by miscommunication in the ranks. His statement aired after repeated attacks on Saturday morning on Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

West Asia War Updates: Israel hammers Beirut, Tehran as Iran attacks more Israeli targets
Gulf countries say they have intercepted more ballistic missiles and drones on Saturday as Iran launched another wave of retaliatory strikes. Saudi Arabia said early Saturday it stopped four drones attacking the country`s massive Shaybah oil field, the second attack within hours. In Dubai, people heard several blasts in the morning, with Emirati authorities saying there had been "a minor incident resulting from the fall of debris after an interception." Meanwhile, Israeli warplanes hammered Beirut and Tehran. Death toll continued to rise Saturday with at least 1,230 people killed in Iran, more than 200 in Lebanon and around a dozen in Israel, according to officials. Six US troops were reported killed.

West Asia War Updates: Israel hammers Beirut, Tehran as Iran attacks more Israeli targets
Gulf countries say they have intercepted more ballistic missiles and drones on Saturday as Iran launched another wave of retaliatory strikes. Saudi Arabia said early Saturday it stopped four drones attacking the country`s massive Shaybah oil field, the second attack within hours. In Dubai, people heard several blasts in the morning, with Emirati authorities saying there had been "a minor incident resulting from the fall of debris after an interception." Meanwhile, Israeli warplanes hammered Beirut and Tehran. Death toll continued to rise Saturday with at least 1,230 people killed in Iran, more than 200 in Lebanon and around a dozen in Israel, according to officials. Six US troops were reported killed.

West Asia War Updates: India among few nations that can speak to all sides in global conflicts: Finnish President Stubb
Calling India one of the few countries capable of engaging with all sides in global conflicts, Finnish President Alexander Stubb on Saturday said New Delhi`s pragmatic foreign policy places it in a unique diplomatic position amid escalating geopolitical tensions. Speaking to ANI in Mumbai following his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, Stubb said the two leaders held extensive discussions on global conflicts, particularly the war in Ukraine and escalating tensions involving Iran.

West Asia War Updates: India among few nations that can speak to all sides in global conflicts: Finnish President Stubb
Calling India one of the few countries capable of engaging with all sides in global conflicts, Finnish President Alexander Stubb on Saturday said New Delhi`s pragmatic foreign policy places it in a unique diplomatic position amid escalating geopolitical tensions. Speaking to ANI in Mumbai following his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, Stubb said the two leaders held extensive discussions on global conflicts, particularly the war in Ukraine and escalating tensions involving Iran.

West Asia War Updates: Curbs in Kashmir over protests against Khamenei`s killing lifted
Life returned to normal across Kashmir on Saturday as authorities lifted restrictions which were in effect the whole week in the wake of protests in many parts of the valley following the killing of Iran`s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. "Restrictions have been lifted from all parts of the valley and the situation is normal," officials said. They said security forces have removed barricades that were put up at some places, including the Lal Chowk city centre here, to prevent the assembly of people.

West Asia War Updates: Curbs in Kashmir over protests against Khamenei`s killing lifted
Life returned to normal across Kashmir on Saturday as authorities lifted restrictions which were in effect the whole week in the wake of protests in many parts of the valley following the killing of Iran`s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. "Restrictions have been lifted from all parts of the valley and the situation is normal," officials said. They said security forces have removed barricades that were put up at some places, including the Lal Chowk city centre here, to prevent the assembly of people.

West Asia War Updates: Dubai authorities confirm "minor incident" successfully contained after debris falls from interception
Dubai authorities have confirmed a minor incident linked to regional security developments, emphasising that the situation remains under full control. In a post on X, the Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) stated, "Dubai authorities have confirmed that a minor incident resulting from the fall of debris after an interception has been successfully contained. No injuries have been reported. Authorities have also denied reports circulating on social media regarding any incidents at Dubai International Airport."

West Asia War Updates: Dubai authorities confirm "minor incident" successfully contained after debris falls from interception
Dubai authorities have confirmed a minor incident linked to regional security developments, emphasising that the situation remains under full control. In a post on X, the Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) stated, "Dubai authorities have confirmed that a minor incident resulting from the fall of debris after an interception has been successfully contained. No injuries have been reported. Authorities have also denied reports circulating on social media regarding any incidents at Dubai International Airport."

West Asia War Updates: Pakistan increases petrol, diesel prices by PKR 55 per litre, highest-ever hike
In the first post-Iran war economic shock, Pakistan government in an overnight decision has increased petrol and high-speed diesel prices by PKR 55 per litre each, the highest-ever hike. Addressing a press conference just before midnight, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb announced the hike with the consolation that the country has sufficient petroleum reserves. As a result of the hike, the ex-depot price of high-speed diesel was fixed at PKR 335.86 per litre for the coming week, up by about 20 per cent from PKR 280.86 per litre.

West Asia War Updates: Pakistan increases petrol, diesel prices by PKR 55 per litre, highest-ever hike
In the first post-Iran war economic shock, Pakistan government in an overnight decision has increased petrol and high-speed diesel prices by PKR 55 per litre each, the highest-ever hike. Addressing a press conference just before midnight, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb announced the hike with the consolation that the country has sufficient petroleum reserves. As a result of the hike, the ex-depot price of high-speed diesel was fixed at PKR 335.86 per litre for the coming week, up by about 20 per cent from PKR 280.86 per litre.

West Asia War Updates: Army, navy, leaders, communications- all gone in Iran: Trump hails US military strikes
US President Donald Trump on Friday (US local time) praised the military operations being undertaken by the United States in Iran and claimed that the Persian Gulf country has lost its army, navy and communications along with its leaders. He made the remarks while speaking during a round table on collegiate sports in the White House. Trump told the press, "We`re doing very -- by the way, in Iran. Somebody said, how would you score it from zero to 10? I said I`d give it a 12 to a 15. Their army is gone. Their Navy is gone. Their communications are gone. Their leaders are gone. Two sets of their leaders are gone. They`re down to their third set. Their air forces wiped out entirely. Think of it. They have 32 ships. All 32 are at the bottom of the ocean."

West Asia War Updates: Army, navy, leaders, communications- all gone in Iran: Trump hails US military strikes
US President Donald Trump on Friday (US local time) praised the military operations being undertaken by the United States in Iran and claimed that the Persian Gulf country has lost its army, navy and communications along with its leaders. He made the remarks while speaking during a round table on collegiate sports in the White House. Trump told the press, "We`re doing very -- by the way, in Iran. Somebody said, how would you score it from zero to 10? I said I`d give it a 12 to a 15. Their army is gone. Their Navy is gone. Their communications are gone. Their leaders are gone. Two sets of their leaders are gone. They`re down to their third set. Their air forces wiped out entirely. Think of it. They have 32 ships. All 32 are at the bottom of the ocean."

West Asia War Updates: 40 flights carrying 7,205 passengers arrived in India from West Asia on March 5: MoCA
The Ministry of Civil Aviation is closely monitoring the evolving situation in West Asia that is affecting air travel between India and the region, according to an official statement. The ministry said airlines are making necessary operational adjustments in view of prevailing conditions to ensure passenger safety and the orderly conduct of flight operations. As per the official statement, passenger movement data for March 5 shows that a total of 40 inbound flights operated by Indian carriers arrived in India from the West Asia region, carrying 7,205 passengers. With this, the cumulative number of passenger arrivals from the region has reached 14,992.

West Asia War Updates: 40 flights carrying 7,205 passengers arrived in India from West Asia on March 5: MoCA
The Ministry of Civil Aviation is closely monitoring the evolving situation in West Asia that is affecting air travel between India and the region, according to an official statement. The ministry said airlines are making necessary operational adjustments in view of prevailing conditions to ensure passenger safety and the orderly conduct of flight operations. As per the official statement, passenger movement data for March 5 shows that a total of 40 inbound flights operated by Indian carriers arrived in India from the West Asia region, carrying 7,205 passengers. With this, the cumulative number of passenger arrivals from the region has reached 14,992.

West Asia War Updates: Qatar to partially resume air navigation, says civil aviation authority
Qatar`s Civil Aviation Authority announced on Friday the partial resumption of air navigation in the country via designated navigational contingency routes with limited operational capacity, in full coordination with the Qatari Armed Forces and the relevant state authorities. This phase would include the operation of a limited number of flights designated for passenger evacuation, in addition to the operation of cargo air flights. Sharing the details in a post on X, the Qatari Civil Aviation Authority said, "Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) announces the partial resumption of air navigation in the State of Qatar, through designated navigational contingency routes with limited operational capacity, in full coordination with the Qatari Armed Forces and the relevant authorities in the State. This phase includes the operation of a limited number of flights designated for passenger evacuation, in addition to the operation of air cargo flights, in light of the current circumstances in the region, and in a manner that ensures the continued provision of essential air services."

West Asia War Updates: Qatar to partially resume air navigation, says civil aviation authority
Qatar`s Civil Aviation Authority announced on Friday the partial resumption of air navigation in the country via designated navigational contingency routes with limited operational capacity, in full coordination with the Qatari Armed Forces and the relevant state authorities. This phase would include the operation of a limited number of flights designated for passenger evacuation, in addition to the operation of cargo air flights. Sharing the details in a post on X, the Qatari Civil Aviation Authority said, "Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) announces the partial resumption of air navigation in the State of Qatar, through designated navigational contingency routes with limited operational capacity, in full coordination with the Qatari Armed Forces and the relevant authorities in the State. This phase includes the operation of a limited number of flights designated for passenger evacuation, in addition to the operation of air cargo flights, in light of the current circumstances in the region, and in a manner that ensures the continued provision of essential air services."

West Asia War Updates: Qatar: Indian Embassy activates additional 24/7 helpline numbers to assist Indian nationals
The Indian Embassy in Doha said on Saturday that it has activated an additional set of helpline numbers to assist Indian nationals amid the developing security situation in West Asia.
The Embassy shared the numbers in a post on X:
i. +974 55647502
ii. +974 55362508
iii. +974 55384683
It also provided the email address-- cons.doha@mea.gov.in , noting that these remain available for all queries and assistance requests from the Indian community in Qatar.

West Asia War Updates: Qatar: Indian Embassy activates additional 24/7 helpline numbers to assist Indian nationals
The Indian Embassy in Doha said on Saturday that it has activated an additional set of helpline numbers to assist Indian nationals amid the developing security situation in West Asia.
The Embassy shared the numbers in a post on X:
i. +974 55647502
ii. +974 55362508
iii. +974 55384683
It also provided the email address-- cons.doha@mea.gov.in , noting that these remain available for all queries and assistance requests from the Indian community in Qatar.

West Asia War Updates: US to send anti-drone system to Mideast after successful use in Ukraine, officials say
An American anti-drone system proven to work against Russian drones in Ukraine will soon be sent to the Middle East to bolster US defences against Iranian drones, two US officials told The Associated Press on Friday. While the US has used Patriot and THAAD missile systems to take down Iranian missiles successfully, there are limited effective anti-drone defences now in the Middle East, according to a US defence official, one of two officials who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military matters. The US response to countering Iran`s Shahed drones has been "disappointing," the other US official said, particularly because the drones fired by Iran are a much more basic version of the same drone that Russia is continuously refining and updating in its war in Ukraine.

West Asia War Updates: US to send anti-drone system to Mideast after successful use in Ukraine, officials say
An American anti-drone system proven to work against Russian drones in Ukraine will soon be sent to the Middle East to bolster US defences against Iranian drones, two US officials told The Associated Press on Friday. While the US has used Patriot and THAAD missile systems to take down Iranian missiles successfully, there are limited effective anti-drone defences now in the Middle East, according to a US defence official, one of two officials who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military matters. The US response to countering Iran`s Shahed drones has been "disappointing," the other US official said, particularly because the drones fired by Iran are a much more basic version of the same drone that Russia is continuously refining and updating in its war in Ukraine.

West Asia War Updates: Oil surges to highest price since 2023, stocks drop after weak update on US job market
Oil shot to its highest price since 2023 after surging again Friday because of the Iran war, and a weak update on the US job market knocked stocks lower to cap Wall Street`s worst week since October. The S&amp;P 500 dropped 1.3 per cent after a report showed US employers cut more jobs&Acirc; last month than they created and after oil prices spiked above USD 90 per barrel. The combination of a weak economy and high inflation is a worst-case scenario for investors because the Federal Reserve has no good tool to fix both problems at the same time. The Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged as many as 945 points before finishing with a loss of 453, or 0.9 per cent, and the Nasdaq composite sank 1.6 per cent. "You can`t sugarcoat this report," according to Brian Jacobsen, chief economic strategist at Annex Wealth Management. "A negative payrolls number combined with a big jump in oil prices will have traders worrying about stagflation risks."

West Asia War Updates: Oil surges to highest price since 2023, stocks drop after weak update on US job market
Oil shot to its highest price since 2023 after surging again Friday because of the Iran war, and a weak update on the US job market knocked stocks lower to cap Wall Street`s worst week since October. The S&amp;P 500 dropped 1.3 per cent after a report showed US employers cut more jobs&Acirc; last month than they created and after oil prices spiked above USD 90 per barrel. The combination of a weak economy and high inflation is a worst-case scenario for investors because the Federal Reserve has no good tool to fix both problems at the same time. The Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged as many as 945 points before finishing with a loss of 453, or 0.9 per cent, and the Nasdaq composite sank 1.6 per cent. "You can`t sugarcoat this report," according to Brian Jacobsen, chief economic strategist at Annex Wealth Management. "A negative payrolls number combined with a big jump in oil prices will have traders worrying about stagflation risks."

West Asia War Updates: US attack on Iranian warship did not violate international law, experts say
A US submarine`s deadly attack on an Iranian warship does not appear to have violated international or American military law, though it`s not yet clear whether the sub took sufficient measures to rescue nearly three dozen survivors, legal experts said. Legal questions are swirling about the underpinnings for the entire US-Israeli military operation against Iran, and the aftermath of the torpedo attack on the IRIS Dena in the Indian Ocean, the experts said. Eighty-seven people died and 32 Iranian sailors were rescued after the sub torpedoed the Dena in international waters near Sri Lanka. While the attacks on Iran overall are "a clear violation of the UN charter," the Dena was "a clear military target," said Marko Milanovic, professor of international law at the University of Reading in Britain.

West Asia War Updates: US attack on Iranian warship did not violate international law, experts say
A US submarine`s deadly attack on an Iranian warship does not appear to have violated international or American military law, though it`s not yet clear whether the sub took sufficient measures to rescue nearly three dozen survivors, legal experts said. Legal questions are swirling about the underpinnings for the entire US-Israeli military operation against Iran, and the aftermath of the torpedo attack on the IRIS Dena in the Indian Ocean, the experts said. Eighty-seven people died and 32 Iranian sailors were rescued after the sub torpedoed the Dena in international waters near Sri Lanka. While the attacks on Iran overall are "a clear violation of the UN charter," the Dena was "a clear military target," said Marko Milanovic, professor of international law at the University of Reading in Britain.

West Asia War Updates: Russia has provided Iran with information that can help Tehran strike US military, AP sources say
Russia has provided Iran with information that could help Tehran strike American warships, aircraft and other assets in the region, according to two officials familiar with US intelligence on the matter. The people, who were not authorized to comment publicly on the sensitive matter and spoke on the condition of anonymity, cautioned that the US intelligence has not uncovered that Russia is directing Iran on what to do with the information. Still, it`s the first indication that Moscow has sought to get involved in the war that the US and Israel launched on Iran a week ago. Russia is in the rare club of countries that maintains friendly relations with Tehran, which has faced years of isolation over its nuclear program and its support of proxy groups that have wreaked havoc in the Middle East, including Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis.

West Asia War Updates: Russia has provided Iran with information that can help Tehran strike US military, AP sources say
Russia has provided Iran with information that could help Tehran strike American warships, aircraft and other assets in the region, according to two officials familiar with US intelligence on the matter. The people, who were not authorized to comment publicly on the sensitive matter and spoke on the condition of anonymity, cautioned that the US intelligence has not uncovered that Russia is directing Iran on what to do with the information. Still, it`s the first indication that Moscow has sought to get involved in the war that the US and Israel launched on Iran a week ago. Russia is in the rare club of countries that maintains friendly relations with Tehran, which has faced years of isolation over its nuclear program and its support of proxy groups that have wreaked havoc in the Middle East, including Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis.

West Asia War Updates: Decision on military strikes on Iran taken after PM Modi left Israel: Foreign Minister Sa`ar
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa`ar on Friday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi could not be briefed on Israel`s strikes against Iran during his recent visit to the country as the decision on the military action was made after he had concluded the trip. PM Modi undertook a two-day visit to Israel, which concluded on February 26. Two days later, Israel and the US launched a joint military offensive against Iran that killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Sa`ar, participating virtually in the Raisina Dialogue, said Israel has "great relations" with Modi and India that have deepened over the years.

West Asia War Updates: Decision on military strikes on Iran taken after PM Modi left Israel: Foreign Minister Sa`ar
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa`ar on Friday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi could not be briefed on Israel`s strikes against Iran during his recent visit to the country as the decision on the military action was made after he had concluded the trip. PM Modi undertook a two-day visit to Israel, which concluded on February 26. Two days later, Israel and the US launched a joint military offensive against Iran that killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Sa`ar, participating virtually in the Raisina Dialogue, said Israel has "great relations" with Modi and India that have deepened over the years.

West Asia War LIVE Updates: Israel`s military said on Saturday it had struck 16 Iranian aircraft at Mehrabad International Airport in Tehran, which it described as a key hub for Iran&rsquo;s Revolutionary Guards. &ldquo;Overnight, the Israeli Air Force completed a broad wave of strikes across Tehran and on military infrastructure located at Mehrabad Airport,&rdquo; the military said in a statement. We are closing the LIVE blog now

West Asia War LIVE Updates: It said 16 aircraft belonging to the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) were destroyed in the strikes

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West Asia War Updates: Israel says struck 16 Revolutionary Guards aircraft

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West Asia War Updates: Israel says struck 16 Revolutionary Guards aircraft

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