An Iranian drone was intercepted by the United Arab Emirates early Monday over its territorial waters, according to the Defense Ministry. The incident followed a weekend escalation involving military action between Iran and the United States, representing the first significant combat operations in more than a month. The U.S. had launched attacks on Iranian rocket launchers positioned on an island, citing concerns about potential mining operations in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran subsequently responded by firing missiles at U.S. positions in Jordan, though those were reportedly intercepted. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated his country was not seeking warfare but would “respond decisively to aggressors,” while the UAE characterized the drone attack as a “dangerous escalation.”
In Gaza, Israeli airstrikes on Monday resulted in at least five Palestinian deaths in Gaza City according to hospital officials. One strike struck near a residential building entrance close to the municipal park, while another targeted a vehicle in a neighborhood area. The casualties represent the latest fatalities among Palestinians since an October ceasefire agreement aimed to end more than two years of conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Regionally, major powers convened in Kyrgyzstan for a Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit Monday, with leaders from China, Russia, and India in attendance. Iranian President Pezeshkian was scheduled to hold discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines. Simultaneously, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent conducted meetings of Group of 20 finance ministers, with the U.S. pursuing international cooperation to economically isolate Iran.
Israel completed a substantial weapons agreement with Greece valued at 3 billion euros, marking one of the largest defense deals between the two countries. Israeli defense exports have surged to record levels, exceeding $19 billion last year with a 30 percent increase from the previous year, despite international criticism regarding Israeli military operations.
Separately, Iraq’s prime minister rejected proposals to maintain U.S. coalition forces beyond September 30, when the mission authorization expires. Additionally, Turkey announced that its recently established defense pact with Pakistan and Saudi Arabia would consider applications from additional nations, with Egypt mentioned as a potential candidate.
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