US-Israel war on Iran: Gulf countries intecept new wave of missile, drone strikes, Lebanon death toll rises to 912, Day 19 updates

UAE Minister of Economy tours Carrefour distribution centre to ensure food supply stability

UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri visited the Carrefour distribution centre to assess food supply availability and monitor strategic stock levels amid the current situation. He was received by Majid Al Futtaim Holding CEO Ahmed Galal Ismail and senior executives.

Bin Touq affirmed that retail outlets across the UAE are well-stocked with goods in sufficient quantities to meet consumer needs, supported by stable supply chains and diversified pricing options.

During the tour, he inspected food supply and procurement operations, including shipment receiving, quality inspection, food safety procedures, and inventory management systems.

The minister said major distribution centres play a crucial role in supporting national food security and maintaining price stability, adding that supply and procurement operations are proceeding normally in line with strategic plans.

He noted that the Ministry of Economy and Tourism monitors stock levels at suppliers and distribution centres daily to ensure the adequacy of supply for each essential commodity and support proactive decision-making.

Ahmed Galal Ismail said teams are working around the clock to ensure the availability of essential goods across all Carrefour stores nationwide at stable and affordable prices, highlighting the importance of public-private coordination in maintaining market stability and strengthening the national food security ecosystem.

UAE air defenses intercept 13 ballistic missiles and 27 drones in latest Iranian attack

UAE air defense systems intercepted 13 ballistic missiles and 27 drones launched from Iran on March 18, 2026.

Since the start of Iranian attacks, air defenses have cumulatively dealt with 327 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,699 drones.

The attacks have resulted in the deaths of two armed forces members and six civilians of Pakistani, Nepalese, Bangladeshi, and Palestinian nationalities.

A further 158 people of various nationalities have been injured, with wounds ranging from minor to severe.

The Ministry of Defense affirmed it remains on high alert and fully prepared to counter any threats, defend the country’s sovereignty, and protect its national interests and capabilities.

Iran’s intelligence minister killed in targeted strike in Tehran

Esmaeil Khatib, Iran’s Minister of Intelligence, has been killed in a targeted strike in Tehran, the Israel Defence Forces revealed in an X post.

Khatib was accused of playing a significant role in the arrest and killing of protesters during demonstrations inside Iran, including during the Mahsa Amini protests of 2022–2023, as well as directing terrorist activities targeting Israelis and Americans abroad.

The Iranian Ministry of Intelligence oversees surveillance, espionage, and covert operations worldwide, particularly against Israeli and Iranian citizens.

Arabian Travel Market 2026 rescheduled to August amid regional tensions

RX has announced that Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026 has been moved from May 4–7 to August 17–20, 2026, with the venue remaining at Dubai World Trade Centre.

The decision was made to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of customers, partners, and colleagues, and to give the global travel and tourism community greater confidence and flexibility to attend.

Exhibition Director Danielle Curtis said the safety of all participants remains the highest priority, adding that the rescheduling reflects the organisers’ commitment to ensuring everyone can participate in the industry gathering.

Now in its 33^rd edition, ATM serves as a key global platform connecting destinations, travel suppliers, hospitality brands, airlines, technology providers, and industry professionals.

The RX team said it will work closely with exhibitors, partners, and stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition to the new dates.

UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs releases overview of Iranian attacks and national response

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has published a comprehensive overview of Iran’s unprovoked attacks on the country, outlining the human toll, defensive operations, international response, and the resilience of the national economy and tourism sector.

Attacks and defense As of 17 March 2026, Iran has launched 2,001 missiles and drones against the UAE, including 314 ballistic missiles, 1,672 drones, and 15 cruise missiles. UAE air defense systems successfully intercepted the vast majority of these threats. The country operates integrated multi-layer air defense systems providing comprehensive coverage of national airspace.

Human impact The attacks have resulted in 6 civilian fatalities, the martyrdom of 2 UAE Armed Forces members, and 157 minor injuries. Debris from intercepted missiles and drones caused limited damage to civilian properties.

International response 126 countries and international organisations have condemned the Iranian aggression. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conducted over 100 calls with world leaders, while Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed held more than 100 meetings and calls with counterparts worldwide. UN Security Council Resolution 2817, co-sponsored by 136 countries and adopted on March 11, 2026, condemns Iran’s attacks, declares them a breach of international law, demands an immediate ceasefire, and affirms the UAE’s right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter.

Economy The UAE’s economy remains stable, with non-oil sectors accounting for 75 per cent of GDP. Sovereign wealth funds hold approximately $2.49 trillion in assets, making the UAE the third-largest sovereign wealth holder globally. S&P Global has affirmed the country’s AA/A-1+ credit rating with a stable outlook. There is no change to investment plans or long-term economic priorities.

Tourism and aviation Tourism continues to operate normally, with 1,260 hotels and over 40,000 tourism-related companies functioning across the UAE. The country is covering accommodation and catering costs for passengers stranded at airports due to flight disruptions. More than 1.4 million passengers passed through UAE airports between March 1 and 12, with flights continuing to operate with temporary safety adjustments when required.

Trump says US does not need NATO allies’ help after military success against Iran

US President Donald Trump announced that most NATO allies have declined to participate in American military operations against Iran, despite broadly agreeing that Iran should not be permitted to develop nuclear weapons.

Trump said he was unsurprised, repeating his longstanding criticism that NATO is “a one way street” in which the US spends hundreds of billions of dollars protecting allies who offer nothing in return, via a post on Truth Social.

Trump claimed sweeping military success against Iran, saying the country’s navy, air force, anti-aircraft and radar systems have been destroyed, and that Iranian leaders “at virtually every level” have been killed.

He said the US no longer needs or desires the assistance of NATO members, nor that of Japan, Australia, or South Korea, adding: “We do not need the help of anyone.”

UAE Ministry of Interior issues all-clear, notifies public to resume normal activities

The UAE Ministry of Interior has issued a public safety alert confirming that the situation is currently safe.

Residents are advised that they may resume their normal daily activities while remaining cautious, taking necessary precautions, and continuing to follow official instructions.

Dubai Police warns public of fraudulent messages impersonating the force

Dubai Police has cautioned the public against fraudulent messages circulating under its name.

Residents are advised not to click on unknown links, not to share personal or banking information, and to rely only on official channels for information.

Dubai Police stressed that public awareness is the first line of defence against such scams.

Dubai authorities confirm all aerial interceptions successful, no injuries reported

Authorities in Dubai have confirmed that all air interception operations have been carried out successfully, with no injuries recorded. The public is urged to rely on official sources for updates.

UAE’s NCEMA warns of active missile threat – public urged to shelter in place

The National Crisis and Emergency Management Authority (NCEMA) has announced that air defense systems are actively responding to a missile threat. The public is advised to remain in a safe location and follow official channels for the latest warnings and updates.

UAE Ministry of Interior issues emergency alert to residents

The UAE Ministry of Interior has issued an emergency alert warning residents of a potential missile threat, directing everyone to immediately take shelter in the nearest secure building, move away from windows, doors, and open areas, and await further official instructions.

Iran confirms killing of top security chief Larijani and Basij commander Soleimani

Iran’s state media has confirmed the deaths of Supreme National Security Council secretary Ali Larijani and Basij militia commander Gholamreza Soleimani, hours after Israel claimed responsibility for killing both officials.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council confirmed Larijani’s death in a statement carried by the semi-official Mehr news agency, describing him as having “attained the blessed rank of martyrdom in the service front.”

The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps separately confirmed Soleimani’s killing.

Larijani is the highest-ranking Iranian official killed in US-Israeli strikes since former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was assassinated on the first day of the war on February 28.

A veteran political figure, Larijani previously led Iran’s nuclear negotiations with the West and served as speaker of parliament. He was last seen publicly on Friday at an Al-Quds Day rally in Tehran alongside President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Qatar’s Ministry of Transport warns vessels to avoid marine survey zone through April 18

Qatar’s Ministry of Transport has urged all ships and maritime vessels to steer clear of a designated marine survey operations area from March 18 to April 18, 2026.

The ministry cited the need to ensure the safety of operations and protect lives and property within the specified coordinates.

US forces strike Iranian missile sites near Strait of Hormuz with deep penetrator munitions

US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced late Tuesday that American forces carried out strikes on fortified missile sites along Iran’s coastline near the Strait of Hormuz.

“Hours ago, U.S. forces successfully employed multiple 5,000-pound deep penetrator munitions on hardened Iranian missile sites along Iran’s coastline near the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian anti-ship cruise missiles in these sites posed a risk to international shipping in the strait,” CENTCOM said in via an X post.

The strikes are part of Washington’s broader effort to degrade Iran’s missile capabilities and overall military strength.

Bahrain’s king and Trump discuss regional developments, US reaffirms support for Gulf states

Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa received a phone call from US President Donald Trump, during which the two leaders discussed bilateral ties and cooperation in light of current regional developments, as well as a range of issues of mutual interest.

President Trump reaffirmed the United States’ full support for Bahrain and the Gulf Cooperation Council states, underscoring Washington’s commitment to safeguarding their security and stability, and reiterated his condemnation of Iranian attacks targeting Gulf states.

King Hamad expressed appreciation for the US president’s support and commended the strong relations between the two countries and their shared commitment to advancing cooperation across various sectors.

Al-Azhar condemns Iran’s attacks on Gulf and Arab neighbours, urges immediate ceasefire

Al-Azhar al-Sharif has strongly condemned Iran’s ongoing attacks on Gulf states – including the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Oman – as well as several other Arab and neighbouring countries including Jordan, Iraq, Türkiye, and Azerbaijan.

The institution called on Iran to immediately and unconditionally cease its hostilities, stressing that such a decision is dictated by Islamic law.

Al-Azhar emphasised the obligation to respect the sovereignty of these nations and protect innocent civilians who have no part in the conflict, warning that targeting residential areas, airports, hospitals, and energy facilities in non-belligerent countries constitutes a grave violation of international humanitarian law and a blatant transgression of Islamic principles protecting life, property, and human dignity.

Al-Azhar welcomed Egyptian leadership efforts to halt military operations across the region and called on the international community to fulfil its responsibilities in stopping the war, prioritising dialogue, and preventing further escalation.

The institution extended its condolences to the families of victims in the affected countries and wished the injured a swift recovery.

Eid Al-Fitr prayers to be held in mosques only this year, outdoor gatherings cancelled

The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments & Zakat has announced that Eid Al-Fitr prayers will not be held in open grounds or outdoor spaces this year, and will instead be confined to mosques across the UAE.

The decision, taken in coordination with the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai and the Department of Islamic Affairs in Sharjah, is part of broader measures to ensure the safety of citizens and residents.

Worshippers have been urged to follow the guidelines and arrive early to perform prayers at mosques.

Muslim Council of Elders condemns terrorist plot targeting Kuwait, backs security measures

The Muslim Council of Elders has strongly condemned the terrorist plot targeting Kuwait, expressing full solidarity with the country and backing all measures taken to protect its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its citizens and residents.

The Council commended Kuwaiti security authorities for their professionalism in dismantling the Hezbollah-affiliated cell that had been planning to destabilise the country and recruit members for the organisation.

It reaffirmed its unequivocal rejection of all forms of extremism and terrorism targeting Gulf and Arab states, stressing that countering terrorism is a collective responsibility requiring cooperation and solidarity to protect nations and uphold the values of peace, coexistence, and stability.

UAE confirms strategic medicine stockpile is secure amid regional developments

The Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) has assured that the UAE’s strategic stockpile of medicines and medical supplies is sufficient to meet local market needs. Director-General Dr Fatima Al Kaabi conducted field visits to pharmaceutical factories across the country, including Medisal Pharma and ADCAN Pharma, to review production capacities, expansion plans, and manufacturing technologies.

Dr Al Kaabi said the UAE’s pharmaceutical ecosystem is “capable of responding efficiently to various regional and global developments. The country has succeeded in strengthening the capabilities of local pharmaceutical manufacturers and establishing legislative and regulatory frameworks that support the continued growth of this sector.”

Medisal Pharma’s Managing Director Neha Srivastava and ADCAN Pharma CEO Fokion Sinis both reaffirmed their companies’ commitment to maintaining sufficient supplies and working closely with the EDE to support the country’s drug security system.

Death toll from Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon rises to 912 since March 2

Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health announced that Israeli airstrikes on the country since 2 March have killed 912 people and wounded a further 2,221, according to the National News Agency.