At least one person has been killed in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, in multiple missile launches by Iran that targeted US bases across the Gulf region.
Oil prices were hovering near seven-month highs on Wednesday as the threat of military conflict between the US and Iran that could disrupt supply continued to worry investors as talks between the parties are set for Thursday. Brent prices soared to $71.10 per barrel, their highest since July 31, 2025.
US President Donald Trump has warned that Iran must reach a “meaningful” agreement over its nuclear programme within “10 to 15 days” or face unspecified consequences, escalating rhetoric amid a heightened US military presence in the Middle East.
The US military is prepared to strike Iran as early as this weekend, though President Donald Trump has yet to make a final decision on whether he’ll authorise such actions, sources familiar with the matter tell CNN. This comes amid the massive US military buildup in the Middle East, including warships and fighter jets.
The US military is preparing for sustained, weeks-long operations against Iran if President Donald Trump orders an attack, reported Reuters, citing two US officials. The Pentagon is sending an additional aircraft carrier to the Middle East adding thousands more troops along with fighter aircraft.
Rubio says Trump prefers diplomatic solution but has not ruled out military action as Tehran warns of immediate response to any new attack
Oil prices declined on Thursday, reversing some of the previous session’s gains, as renewed diplomatic efforts to end the conflict involving Iran tempered concerns over potential supply disruptions amid continuing Houthi attacks in the region.
Brent crude climbed above $115 a barrel on Wednesday as continued Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia renewed concerns over potential disruptions to Middle East oil supplies, reversing some of the previous session’s losses as diplomatic efforts to ease regional tensions continued.
High-level meeting in Tehran ends with agreement to continue dialogue on regional peace and security, even as Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia intensify and Egypt signals readiness to support the kingdom's defence.
US intelligence agencies have warned that Iran has substantially stepped up efforts to target American diplomats and officials in the Middle East and other countries, with some plots reaching advanced stages, according to an intelligence memorandum obtained by Axios.
