Middle East News Live: Trump meets with Bahraini and Qatari leaders amid renewed violence in Syria

US President Donald Trump hosted leaders from Bahrain and Qatar at the White House on Wednesday, holding separate meetings amid renewed violence in Syria that has cast doubt on his administration's Middle East peace initiatives, AP said in a report. Trump held an Oval Office meeting with Bahrain's crown prince and later had a private dinner with the prime minister of Qatar. The diplomatic engagements took place against a backdrop of ongoing fighting in Syria, challenging the president's pledge to bring stability to the region.

Dozens of bodies were discovered in the Sweida National Hospital in Syria on Wednesday, according to a report in Middle East Eye. Syria’s Ministry of Health, cited by the state media agency Sana, stated the bodies belonged to security forces and civilians. The discovery follows an earlier ceasefire agreement that had been reached with the Syrian government in Sweida, which was intended to cease all military operations and de-escalate the situation in the province.

The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) held a meeting with the United Arab Emirates' Ambassador to Saudi Arabia to discuss ways to bolster cooperation among member states, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. This diplomatic engagement is part of ongoing efforts to enhance economic and security coordination within the GCC. The meeting underscores the strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, focusing on aligning positions on regional issues and preparing for future high-level summits within the council's framework.

Iran's naval forces have seized a foreign-flagged tanker in the Gulf, alleging that the vessel was involved in smuggling fuel, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The action targets what Iranian authorities have described as the illicit smuggling of its subsidized fuel out of the country.

The United Arab Emirates has welcomed a ceasefire announced in southern Syria's Suwayda Governorate and condemned Israeli airstrikes in the area, Gulf Today said in a report. In a statement from its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the UAE emphasized the importance of de-escalation and civilian protection while denouncing the airstrikes as a violation of Syria's sovereignty. The ministry reaffirmed the UAE's position in support of Syria's territorial integrity and its solidarity with the Syrian people's aspirations for peace and security.

Saudi Arabia has announced its participation in the FISU World University Games Summer, which are being held in Germany, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The country's involvement in the international multi-sport event for university athletes is reported as being aligned with its Vision 2030 strategy, which seeks to increase the Kingdom's international engagement in sectors including sports and culture.

Saudi Arabia is reportedly utilizing its spare oil production capacity to build up strategic reserves in preparation for potential global crises, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. This initiative involves using the volume of oil the kingdom could produce beyond its current OPEC+ quotas to fill strategic stockpiles, rather than drawing from existing market supply. The move is seen as a response to heightened global energy instability, influenced by factors such as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, recent OPEC+ production management decisions, and disruptions to shipping in the Red Sea. By creating this buffer, Saudi Arabia aims to enhance supply resilience against potential disruptions from geopolitical conflicts or significant shifts in global economic demand.

A new government decree issued in a Gulf country grants employees the right to combine their statutory marriage leave with any other leave they are entitled to, Gulf News said in a report. This legislative change is intended to provide greater flexibility for employees planning significant life events by allowing them to consolidate their time off.

Dubai has launched a new global icon system designed to bring transparency to content creation by distinguishing between human and AI contributions, according to a report in Arabian Business. The system, approved by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, aims to provide clear visual markers for use in research, publishing, and the creative industries. This initiative addresses growing global concerns about the authenticity of digital content and aligns with the UAE's strategy to establish itself as a hub for technology and digital governance.

Dubai has enacted a new law to update its dispute resolution and conciliation framework, according to a report in Arabian Business. The new legislation replaces 10 articles of the previous law from 2021. Key changes include clarifying which cases require mandatory conciliation and which are exempt, as well as outlining the formal procedures for dispute settlements.

Emirates airline is set to resume its flight services to Tehran, Iran, starting on July 18, according to a report in Gulf News. The move follows other recent diplomatic developments, including the UAE's reinstatement of its ambassador in Tehran in August 2022 and the restoration of ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran in a 2023 deal brokered by China.

Tourists from the United Arab Emirates are shifting their travel preferences this summer, opting for calmer and less crowded destinations, Gulf News said in a report. This trend indicates a move away from traditional mass-tourism locations in favor of more relaxed travel experiences. The change in traveler behavior reflects evolving post-pandemic preferences and could influence tourism strategies in countries that are popular among UAE residents.

The loading of the eighth UAE aid ship, named Khalifa, has commenced in Abu Dhabi as part of 'Operation Chivalrous Knight 3' to deliver humanitarian assistance to Gaza, according to a report in Emirates 24/7. The operation is taking place at Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi. Once the vessel is fully loaded with aid, it will depart for Gaza to provide relief to the civilian population.

The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has imposed a financial sanction of Dhs600,000 on a branch of a foreign bank operating in the country, Gulf Today said in a report. The penalty was levied after examinations by the CBUAE revealed the branch had failed to comply with Market Conduct and Consumer Protection Regulations and Standards. According to the announcement, the action was taken pursuant to Decretal Federal Law No. (14) of 2018 and is part of the CBUAE's mandate to safeguard the transparency and integrity of the UAE's financial system.

Lebanon has implemented a ban on financial dealings with entities associated with Hezbollah, a move aimed specifically at the group's financial operations, Asharq Al-Awsat says in a report. The directive is not a ban on Hezbollah as a political party but targets its complex network of charities, businesses, and informal financial channels. This action is reportedly based on Lebanon's anti-money laundering laws and its need to comply with international financial standards, such as those from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), particularly as the country navigates a severe economic crisis and pressure from international sanctions.

Dubai's toll operator Salik is expanding its services to Abu Dhabi, where it will manage a paid parking system at two malls beginning July 18, as per a report in Khaleej Times. The new system will be cashless and ticketless, with parking charges automatically deducted from a vehicle owner's existing Salik account upon exiting the mall premises. This move represents an integration of a Dubai-based system into Abu Dhabi's infrastructure.

The United Arab Emirates has initiated its new federal budget cycle covering the period from 2027 to 2029, according to a report in Arabian Business. The new multi-year budget is structured to support the country's national strategies, including the 'We the UAE 2031' vision and the long-term 'UAE Centennial 2071' plan. The government aims for the budget to serve as a financial instrument for future development and strategic alignment.

Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee made a high-profile appearance at the ongoing corruption trial of Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel, The New York Times says in a report. The visit is considered highly unusual for a prominent foreign political figure and coincides with public statements from US President Donald Trump calling for the suspension of the long-running legal case against Netanyahu. The former Israeli leader is facing charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust in multiple cases, which have been a central issue in Israeli politics.

The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) is forecasting robust global oil demand for the third quarter, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The positive outlook suggests that despite geopolitical tensions and global inflationary pressures, overall consumption is expected to remain strong. This forecast is a key factor for the OPEC+ alliance as it considers future decisions regarding its ongoing production cuts, which were implemented to stabilize the market.

Hundreds of Palestinian families are fleeing a camp in the West Bank after Israeli authorities issued demolition orders for homes and other structures in the area, according to a report in AP. The exodus is a direct response to the orders, with residents leaving ahead of the potential demolitions.

The Saudi-based Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology (Etidal) and the messaging platform Telegram removed 30 million extremist posts during the second quarter of 2025, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. This joint effort is part of an ongoing initiative to disrupt the communication, recruitment, and propaganda channels of extremist groups that utilize the platform. Etidal, which operates out of Riyadh, focuses on monitoring and countering extremist content online as part of Saudi Arabia's broader counter-terrorism strategy.

The United Nations Security Council has passed a resolution authorizing 'continuing vigilance' over attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea by Yemen's Houthi group, Asharq Al-Awsat said in a report. This resolution reinforces international monitoring and response efforts to the persistent threat posed by the Houthis, who control significant parts of Yemen, including the capital Sana'a. The measure acknowledges the ongoing disruption to global trade and maritime security, providing further international legitimacy for naval operations tasked with protecting freedom of navigation in the vital waterway.

Dozens of individuals suspected of being ISIS militants have reportedly been arrested in Ethiopia, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The information, which has not been officially confirmed, indicates that security forces have detained numerous people for alleged links to the terrorist organization.

Abu Dhabi's real estate market is experiencing a significant surge, with rental prices increasing by up to 68% and investment yields exceeding 9% in top areas, according to a report in Arabian Business. The report highlights substantial property price gains across the emirate, identifying specific neighborhoods that are leading the market's growth. This trend is attributed to strong investor confidence and high demand, driven by factors such as the UAE's economic diversification policies and its status as a stable regional hub.

A significant increase in influenza cases is being observed in Dubai, with doctors linking the spread directly to the high volume of international travel into the city, according to a report in Gulf News. Medical professionals have noted the rise in respiratory illnesses coincides with Dubai's status as a major global hub, where increased mobility facilitates the transmission of viruses. The current surge underscores the public health challenges associated with large-scale travel.

A consumer dispute has been reported in the UAE where a car buyer paid a fine related to a vehicle as part of a sales agreement, only for the seller to subsequently withdraw from the deal, Gulf News says in a report. The incident highlights the complexities that can arise in second-hand vehicle transactions and underscores the potential for disagreements over contractual obligations between private parties.

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has declared that the country is ready to respond to any renewed military attack, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The statement from Khamenei, who holds final authority over Iran's state and military policy, is a direct message amid ongoing regional tensions. The warning is intentionally broad, understood to cover potential direct military strikes, cyberattacks, or an escalation of proxy conflicts.

An updated visa procedure has been put in place for residents of the United Arab Emirates traveling to China, as per a report in Khaleej Times. The new rules specify the required documentation for different types of travel. Individuals on business trips must provide documents such as official invitation letters, while tourists are required to submit proof of their hotel bookings and flight tickets to secure a visa.

The UAE's Federal Tax Authority (FTA) is emphasizing the need for businesses to complete their corporate tax registration promptly to take advantage of a waiver on late registration penalties, according to a report in Emirates 24/7. The authority has confirmed an increase in the number of companies benefiting from this initiative, which is part of the ongoing implementation of the UAE's federal corporate tax system. The waiver is designed to encourage compliance among businesses subject to the tax, which was first introduced for financial years starting on or after June 1, 2023.

Corporate tax registrations in the United Arab Emirates have increased following a government initiative that waived penalties for late registration, Arabian Business said in a report. The measure applies to specific categories of taxable and exempt persons who were required to register with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). This initiative is part of the implementation of the UAE's new federal corporate tax, which became effective for financial years starting on or after June 1, 2023, and aims to ensure widespread compliance with the new law.

The United Arab Emirates' non-oil economy demonstrated robust growth in June, with the Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) remaining in expansion territory at 53.5, according to a report in Arabian Business. This economic strength is largely fueled by surges in key sectors. Dubai's real estate market experienced a significant 38 percent increase in the value of transactions, while the nation's tourism industry has recovered to exceed pre-COVID levels.

The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates has fined a branch of an unidentified foreign bank for unspecified rule violations, Gulf News said in a report. The report did not name the bank or detail the specific nature of the infractions.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, has issued a new law that amends specific provisions of the existing Dubai Conciliation Law, according to a report in Emirates 24/7. The law was announced by Sheikh Mohammed, who also serves as the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE. The amendments are aimed at updating the legal framework governing conciliation as a method for dispute resolution within the emirate.

Armenia is actively encouraging tourism from Gulf nations, including implementing visa-free travel policies, as part of a broader national strategy for post-conflict economic recovery and foreign policy diversification, according to a report in Gulf News. This initiative is a key component of Armenia's efforts to reduce its traditional reliance on Russia and forge stronger economic and diplomatic ties with the Middle East and Western countries. Analysts note that attracting investment and tourists from the Gulf is critical for generating revenue and projecting an image of stability after the 2020 and 2023 conflicts over Nagorno-Karabakh.

Saudi Arabia has introduced a new policy to assist first-time homebuyers by allowing for lower down payments and offering up to 95 percent financing support on real estate purchases, according to a report in Arabian Business. The initiative is a component of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 plan, which aims to increase the rate of homeownership among its citizens. The policy specifically targets Saudi nationals who do not currently own a home, aiming to make property acquisition more accessible and stimulate the domestic real estate and construction sectors.

Abu Dhabi has enacted significant reforms to its real estate laws aimed at enhancing investor protection and streamlining regulatory oversight, according to a report in Arabian Business. The new legislation is a key component of the UAE's wider strategy to diversify its economy away from oil, attract foreign direct investment, and maintain its competitive edge against other regional economic hubs. These legal changes also complement recent visa and residency reforms designed to make the emirate a more attractive destination for long-term investment and residency.

Two tokenized real estate properties in Dubai were sold in just 12 minutes, demonstrating strong investor confidence in the city's digital asset sector, as per a report in Gulf News. The rapid transaction highlights market efficiency and is supported by the UAE's broader strategy to develop its digital economy. This development was enabled by a clear regulatory framework, including the establishment of the Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA) in 2022, which has helped legitimize and provide a secure environment for such digital property sales.

Israeli authorities have transferred administrative powers over the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron from the Palestinian-run municipality to a settler religious council, according to a report in Middle East Eye. The move, described as a "historic and unprecedented change," reportedly includes plans for "structural changes" at the holy site, which is known to Israelis as the Cave of the Patriarchs. The compound has been divided into a mosque and a synagogue since the 1994 massacre of Palestinian worshippers by an Israeli settler. The transfer of control follows another recent change in practice, where Israeli authorities, for the first time, did not hand over all sections of the mosque to the Palestinian Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs during Ramadan as was customary.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are actively working to stop dozens of Israeli civilians from infiltrating Syria, as per a report in The Jerusalem Post. The infiltration attempt involves an illegal crossing of the 1967 ceasefire line into what is internationally considered sovereign Syrian territory. This action by the civilians is a violation of both Israeli law, which prohibits unauthorized entry into an enemy state, and international law. The IDF's intervention highlights its role in maintaining border control and preventing unsanctioned actions that could escalate tensions in a volatile region.

Young people in Saudi Arabia own over 474,000 registered businesses, reflecting a significant trend in entrepreneurship within the kingdom, according to a report in Arabian Business. This growth is particularly prominent in emerging technology sectors, including app design, gaming, and artificial intelligence. The rise in youth-led enterprises aligns with the country's broader economic diversification goals aimed at developing non-oil industries.

Twenty people have been killed during a crowd surge at an aid distribution site in the Khan Younis area of Gaza, BBC said in a report. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, an aid group on the ground, reported that 19 of the victims were trampled to death and one was stabbed during the incident.

The United Arab Emirates is actively developing its public transport infrastructure to address growing traffic congestion in its major cities, according to a report in Gulf News. These initiatives are a core component of the country's long-term strategic plans, such as the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and Abu Dhabi Vision 2030, which focus on sustainable urban development and enhancing quality of life. The push for improved public transit is also linked to the UAE's economic diversification efforts and its commitments to sustainability, notably following its hosting of the COP28 climate summit in 2023. The state-funded projects aim to support key economic sectors like tourism and logistics, attract international business, and provide essential mobility for the nation's diverse population.

The UAE's General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat has launched a new system for selecting and accrediting Hajj campaigns, as per a report in Emirates 24/7. This new government-led initiative is designed to formalize and digitize the process for managing the country's quota of pilgrims. The system will handle the selection and official approval of campaigns that facilitate the Hajj pilgrimage for citizens and residents.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi is set to expand its network of routes from the UAE capital following the market exit of European low-cost carrier Wizz Air, according to a report in Gulf News. The expansion by Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, a joint venture between Air Arabia and Abu Dhabi's sovereign wealth fund ADQ, aligns with the emirate's broader economic strategy to enhance its global connectivity and boost its tourism and aviation sectors. Wizz Air's departure is a commercial decision that creates an opportunity for the local, state-backed carrier to increase its market share.

Amid extensive destruction from Israel's ongoing military offensive in Rafah, the selective preservation of some buildings has prompted scrutiny and concern from international bodies and Palestinian observers, according to a report in Al Jazeera. The existence of these intact structures amidst the devastation has led to questions about whether they were intentionally spared. Analysts suggest potential reasons range from tactical military considerations, such as creating future operational bases, to being part of a long-term Israeli strategy for post-conflict control of the area. The situation is also being examined by international law experts for compliance with the principles of distinction and proportionality in warfare.

An Indian national residing in the United Arab Emirates has won the grand prize in the 'Big Ticket' raffle, a popular and legally sanctioned lottery draw, Gulf News said in a report. The man had reportedly been purchasing tickets without his wife's knowledge. The event involves a member of the Indian expatriate community, which constitutes the largest foreign demographic in the UAE.

Doctors in the United Arab Emirates have issued a warning to parents regarding recurrent fevers in children, advising them to seek medical attention for persistent or recurring high temperatures, as per a report in Gulf News. The public health advisory emphasizes the importance of not dismissing repeated fevers as common childhood ailments and encourages prompt consultation with healthcare professionals to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has enacted amendments to its Data Protection Law, notably introducing a Private Right of Action, as per a report in Arabian Business. This legal modification empowers individuals to directly sue organizations in the DIFC Courts for damages or other remedies if their data protection rights have been violated. The reform, which applies only within the DIFC's specific common law jurisdiction, is designed to enhance individual data privacy, increase accountability for businesses, and align the financial hub's regulations with international standards.

Explosive-laden drones struck three oil fields in Iraq's northern Kurdistan region early Wednesday, marking a significant escalation in attacks on the area's energy sector, Gulf Today said in a report. The attacks targeted the Peshkabir and Tawke fields, operated by Norwegian firm DNO, and another field run by US-based Hunt Oil, causing material damage. This follows a drone strike a day earlier that forced US company HKN Energy to suspend operations at a separate field. These incidents, part of a recent spate of unclaimed attacks, are occurring amid heightened tensions between Baghdad and Arbil over oil exports and are often linked to regional proxy conflicts involving Iran and the United States.

Abu Dhabi Police have issued a public safety alert for motorists due to a dust storm, as per a report in Gulf News. Authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution, maintain a safe distance between vehicles, and refrain from using mobile phones or being otherwise distracted to ensure safety during the adverse weather conditions.

A court in Dubai has ordered an employer to pay an employee Dh336,000 in end-of-service compensation, as per a report in Khaleej Times. The ruling upheld the employee's right to their gratuity and other accrued benefits following a labor dispute. However, the court denied a separate request from the employee for Dh4,000 to cover a return flight ticket, stating that the specific circumstances of the termination did not legally obligate the employer to bear this cost.

Indian conglomerate Shapoorji Pallonji has completed its first major international development, the 45-story Imperial Avenue residential tower located in Downtown Dubai, according to a report in Arabian Business. The project officially concluded upon receiving the Building Completion Certificate from Dubai's Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). This certification confirms that the high-profile structure has met all necessary construction, safety, and regulatory standards, making it legally ready for occupancy and transfer of ownership.

A singer in the UAE has undergone a successful awake brain surgery, during which he played the oud, a traditional stringed instrument, Gulf News said in a report. The procedure, known as an 'awake craniotomy', allowed surgeons to monitor the patient's brain function in real-time to protect the areas controlling his musical talent. By having the patient play the instrument, the medical team could ensure that the surgery did not impair his fine motor skills and artistic abilities.

The nomination of right-wing influencer Nick Adams as the next US ambassador to Malaysia has drawn condemnation from former government ministers and youth politicians in the country, who labeled it an insult, according to a report in The Guardian. The announcement was made last week by US President Donald Trump, who praised Adams as an "incredible patriot". The criticism in Muslim-majority Malaysia stems from Adams's self-proclaimed "alpha-male" persona and particularly his pro-Israel comments, which conflict with Malaysia's long-standing and staunch support for the Palestinian cause.

Oman has hired veteran manager Carlos Queiroz to lead its national football team, Asharq Al-Awsat says in a report. The appointment is a significant move for the country as it aims to strengthen its team and launch a serious campaign to qualify for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

Saudi Arabia has officially backed measures by the Syrian government aimed at restoring stability and has simultaneously condemned recent Israeli military attacks on Syrian territory, Asharq Al-Awsat reports. This official stance reinforces the ongoing diplomatic rapprochement between Riyadh and Damascus, which follows Syria's readmission to the Arab League in 2023 and marks a change from Saudi Arabia's previous policy of isolating the Syrian government.

The Muslim World League (MWL) has reiterated its support for Syria's security and sovereignty amid what it describes as escalating threats, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The statement was issued by the Mecca-based, Saudi-funded international non-governmental organization. The MWL's declaration comes during a period of increasing diplomatic re-engagement with the Syrian government by other regional states.

President Donald Trump has stated he is in no rush to engage in diplomatic talks with Iran, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The statement signals a continuation of U.S. pressure toward Tehran, consistent with the 'maximum pressure' campaign initiated during his previous term after the U.S. withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018. This stance comes amid ongoing international concerns regarding Iran's nuclear program and regional activities.

Emirates NBD has given its approval to finance the Dubai Metro Blue Line, a transport project valued at $5.58 billion, as per a report in Arabian Business. The new metro line is designed to connect various communities across the city. According to projections, the Blue Line is expected to serve approximately 350,000 passengers on a daily basis by the year 2040.

Israel has publicly criticized the United Nations and other international organizations regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza, according to a report in Fox News. The Israeli government's position is that thousands of pallets of humanitarian aid, which have already entered the territory, are currently sitting idle and have not been distributed. This criticism comes as the UN and other agencies continue to call for Israel to allow more aid into Gaza, with Israel contending that the primary issue is with the aid agencies' failure to distribute the supplies that are already there.

Recent Israeli attacks in Gaza have killed at least 61 people as the United Nations warns of a worsening malnutrition crisis and the looming threat of famine, as per a report in Al Jazeera. Amid the ongoing conflict, the European Union has increased pressure on Israel, demanding more significant action to facilitate an aid deal for the region. The developments come as international bodies continue to monitor the severe humanitarian situation affecting the civilian population in Gaza.

A grenade was thrown and exploded outside a soccer stadium in the central Israeli city of Ramat Hasharon on Tuesday night, according to a report in The Jerusalem Post. The incident, originally reported by N12, involved the device detonating near the stadium premises.

Germany's Constitutional Court has ruled that the government is not legally responsible for a 2012 US drone strike in Yemen that was guided via a base on German soil, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. The case was brought by two Yemeni plaintiffs whose relatives were killed in the strike. The court found that Berlin did not breach its constitutional or international law obligations by allowing the US to use facilities like the Ramstein Air Base as a communication relay for drone operations, rejecting the argument that this made Germany complicit in the attack.