Saudi Arabia to Host Key Arab-Islamic Meet as Iran Strikes Intensify
Saudi Arabia is set to host a high-level consultative meeting of foreign ministers from a group of Arab and Islamic countries in Riyadh on Wednesday evening, amid rapidly escalating hostilities across the Middle East.
According to a post on X by the Saudi foreign ministry, the session will focus on “consultation and coordination regarding ways to support the security and stability of the region.”
The meeting comes against the backdrop of intensifying conflict following a combined American and Israeli military operation against Iran on February 28.
Tehran responded with multiple rounds of drone and missile strikes, widening the scope of the confrontation, which has now entered its 19th day.
Retaliatory attacks have since targeted Gulf nations, Israel, and United States assets, marking what is being described as the most significant security emergency the region has faced in years.
How is the Middle East escalation disrupting airports in Dubai and Doha?
The escalation has also disrupted key logistics and transport networks, with international airports in Dubai and Doha forced to shut repeatedly, affecting global trade, passenger travel, and the delivery of essential medical supplies.
In the United Arab Emirates, the Ministry of Defence said the country’s military is actively engaged in defensive operations following a fresh wave of aerial attacks.
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The ministry stated that air defence systems are “currently responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran.”
This development follows a similar incident reported four hours earlier, indicating a sharp escalation as the UAE confirmed engagement against another alleged Iranian attack within the same day.
According to Gulf News, the UAE’s air defence systems intercepted 10 ballistic missiles and 45 drones launched from Iran on March 17. The ministry said these actions form part of a broader response to continuing attacks targeting the nation’s territory.
How have casualties mounted in the UAE amid the Middle East escalation?
Since the onset of hostilities, the UAE military has neutralised 314 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,672 drones.
The sustained aerial campaign has resulted in the deaths of two members of the UAE Armed Forces who were killed while carrying out their national duty.
Civilian casualties have also been reported, with six fatalities among individuals of Pakistani, Nepalese, Bangladeshi, and Palestinian nationalities.
A total of 157 people have been injured, with conditions ranging from minor to severe. Those affected include both UAE nationals and expatriates.
The Ministry of Defence said it remains on high alert and is fully prepared to respond to any further provocations.
Military leadership has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the country’s sovereignty, security, and stability, while ensuring the protection of national interests and assets.
(With inputs from ANI)