Explosions were reported in Dubai on Saturday, leading to the temporary suspension of flight operations at the city's airport, one of the world's busiest for international travel. Passengers waiting for departures were directed into train tunnels at the sprawling airfield as authorities activated air defenses. A witness told AFP that an explosion was heard over the airport, followed by a cloud of smoke in the air. Multiple residents also reported explosions across the city. The Dubai government confirmed that no incident occurred at the airport itself, stating that a minor event involving debris from an interception had been contained. No injuries were reported. Emirates Airlines suspended all flights to and from Dubai until further notice, offering rebooking or refund options for travelers booked between February 28 and March 31. Flight tracking data showed delays averaging 60 to 90 minutes, though some operations were later resumed. The incident occurred amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, with the U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict entering its eighth day. Iranian attacks targeted areas in Dubai, including the upscale Palm Jumeirah district and the Burj Al Arab hotel, while drone debris caused a fire at the U.S. consulate. Tehran retaliated by launching missiles at Israel, as the U.S. warned of an impending bombing campaign. The conflict has seen significant casualties, with four airport staff injured and a concourse damaged at Dubai International Airport. Iranian strikes have also disrupted infrastructure in the region, including a reported attack on a U.S. THAAD radar system worth $300 million. U.S. President Donald Trump's administration approved a $151 million arms sale to Israel, signaling a hardline stance against Iran. Iran's U.N. ambassador vowed to take "all necessary measures" to defend the country.#iran #emirates_airlines #burj_al_arab #dubai_airport #palm_jumeirah
Iran and Israel Exchange Strikes Amid Escalating Conflict Explosions rocked Tehran hours after dramatic footage showed flames engulfing Mehrabad International Airport, as Israel launched a “broad-scale wave of strikes” targeting Iranian military infrastructure. The Israel Defense Forces confirmed using over 80 fighter jets in pre-dawn attacks, focusing on sites including a military university, missile storage facilities, and command centers. Iranian state media reported the strikes, with footage showing smoke rising from the airport and explosions in western Tehran. The extent of damage to the airport remains unclear, though Iranian officials claimed it was hit. Iran’s leadership responded with retaliatory strikes, targeting Israeli and Gulf nations. Regional allies such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE reported repelling attacks, while the U.S. military claimed to have struck more than 3,000 Iranian targets since the conflict began. President Donald Trump intensified pressure on Tehran, vowing no negotiations without “unconditional surrender.” Meanwhile, Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, dismissed U.S. demands, stating, “They will take their dreams of our unconditional surrender to the grave.” Pezeshkian’s remarks came amid a power vacuum following the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, with a three-person council temporarily governing the country. Iranian state media highlighted the damage to Tehran’s sports center, describing debris-filled rooms, a ruined gym, and a destroyed library. The IRIB report also noted a mosque was “completely damaged.” Israeli officials emphasized the strikes targeted military assets, including the Imam Hossein military university, which trains Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps officers.#iran #israel #mehrabad_international_airport #supreme_leader_ali_khamenei #emirates_airlines
