Iran launches missile and drone attack on UAE for second day as war escalates

The United Arab Emirates is currently intercepting missile and drone attacks launched by Iran, marking the second consecutive day of hostilities after a four-week period of relative calm in the Gulf.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the US is not seeking conflict but warned of 'overwhelming force' against Iran if it targets commercial ships, describing Tehran as the 'clear aggressor' following Monday's incidents.

Donald Trump initiated 'Project Freedom' to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but less than 24 hours later, merchant ships reported explosions, an oil port in the UAE was attacked by Iranian missiles, and the US destroyed seven Iranian boats.

The RAC has issued a warning about rising fuel prices due to the ongoing conflict, while Saudi Arabia expressed concerns about regional escalation and called for urgent diplomatic efforts to stabilise the situation.

US General Dan Caine reported that 22,500 mariners remain stranded in the Gulf, with Iran having fired at commercial vessels nine times and seized two ships since the ceasefire, while 15,000 US service members and continuous air patrols maintain readiness for combat operations.