UAE mediation efforts succeed with new exchange of 350 captives between Russia and Ukraine

Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova condemned a drone strike on the commercial vessel Arctic Metagaz in the Mediterranean. Calling it "a terrorist attack & a war crime," she detailed the crew's rescue after a gas explosion, criticised Malta's refusal to assist the injured, and denounced the European silence.

The UAE has led a successful UN diplomatic push, with the Security Council adopting Resolution 2817 to condemn Iran's "egregious attacks." Co-sponsored by 140 nations, the resolution demands an end to "indiscriminate strikes" and affirms the UAE's right to self-defence against threats to its sovereignty and civilian infrastructure.

The UN Security Council has adopted a resolution condemning Iran's "egregious attacks" against regional neighbours, demanding an immediate halt to hostilities and interference with maritime trade. While 13 members voted in favour, Russia and China abstained, with Tehran dismissing the move as a "manifest injustice" and a "serious setback."

The UAE has activated air defences to intercept an Iranian missile and drone attack, advising residents to "remain in a safe location." Authorities have intercepted over 1,700 threats since the conflict began. While most were neutralised, hostilities have tragically caused six deaths and 131 injuries among various nationalities.

Saudi Arabia intercepted multiple drones targeting the "Shaybah oil field" as regional tensions soar. Amid the conflict, Russia and Saudi Arabia "emphasised the need" for international efforts to prevent escalation. Meanwhile, the US warned Russia not to intervene, despite Trump and Putin discussing "opportunity for some peace" in Ukraine.