With US strikes continuing and Hormuz tensions rising, airlines have cancelled flights while global oil prices climbed above $95 a barrel.
US-Iran Conflict Enters 11th Night. What UAE Residents Need to Know
US strikes continued for an 11th consecutive night as tensions around the Strait of Hormuz escalated, pushing oil prices above $95 a barrel and prompting airlines to adjust regional flight schedules.
The conflict between the United States and Iran showed no signs of easing as Washington intensified military operations and tightened pressure around Iranian ports. Fresh airstrikes, a stronger US naval presence, and continued disruptions to shipping have heightened concerns over regional security, energy supplies, and commercial aviation.
For UAE residents, daily life continues normally, but travelers and businesses are closely monitoring developments as airlines revise schedules and oil markets react to growing uncertainty.
US Strengthens Naval Blockade Around Iran
The United States stepped up enforcement of its naval blockade after redirecting eight commercial vessels attempting to enter or leave Iranian ports. According to US officials, the ships complied after receiving instructions from coalition naval forces.
Another vessel was reportedly disabled after failing to respond to repeated warnings.
Washington says the blockade is designed to restrict Iran’s oil exports and limit the movement of supplies while allowing vessels not engaged in trade with Iran to continue transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
Airstrikes Continue for an 11th Night
US Central Command confirmed a fresh round of overnight strikes targeting multiple locations across Iran, including Bushehr, Bandar Abbas, Tehran, Mahshahr, Tabriz, Chabahar, Behbahan, Urmia, Sirik, Parchin, and Baneh.
Among the reported targets was the Bidboland Gas Refinery in Khuzestan province, one of Iran’s largest gas-processing facilities. Reports also indicated strikes near the military section of Bushehr Airport.
According to CENTCOM, the campaign is aimed at reducing Iran’s military capabilities used to threaten commercial shipping and international maritime traffic.
Pentagon Says War Has Cost $37.5 Billion
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told lawmakers that military operations against Iran have now cost approximately $37.5 billion, significantly higher than earlier estimates.
The Pentagon has requested an additional $67 billion in emergency funding to continue military operations through September.
Members of Congress from both parties questioned the long-term strategy, the financial cost of the campaign, and Washington’s objectives in the region.
US Identifies Soldier Killed in Iraq
The US military identified Sgt. Michael Emmanuel Swinton as the third American service member killed following recent Iranian attacks.
Swinton died during an operation to safely dispose of unexploded ordnance from an intercepted Iranian drone in northern Iraq while serving with the US Army Space and Missile Defense Command.
UAE Airlines Continue Monitoring Operations
Several UAE carriers have adjusted selected services to destinations including Bahrain and Kuwait as the regional security situation evolves.
Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai, and Air Arabia continue operating most scheduled services but have introduced cancellations and schedule adjustments on some routes where necessary.
Passengers are advised to:
- Check flight status before leaving for the airport.
- Monitor airline notifications through official websites and mobile apps.
- Arrive at the airport early if instructed by their airline.
- Keep contact details updated to receive schedule changes.
Airlines continue reviewing operations as airspace restrictions and security conditions develop.
Hormuz Remains at the Centre of the Crisis
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that allowing Iran to control the Strait of Hormuz would set a dangerous precedent for global shipping.
Speaking at an ASEAN meeting, Rubio said freedom of navigation through international waterways must be protected, while reiterating that Washington remains open to diplomacy if Iran demonstrates a genuine commitment to negotiations.
The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly one-fifth of global oil consumption, making any disruption a significant concern for international energy markets.
Oil Prices Climb Above $95
Energy markets continued reacting to the conflict.
Brent crude rose above $95 per barrel, while US benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) climbed above $88 per barrel as traders assessed the risks of prolonged disruption to Gulf shipping routes.
Analysts say continued instability around the Strait of Hormuz could increase shipping costs, insurance premiums, and fuel prices worldwide.
New Diplomatic Efforts Continue
Despite the ongoing military campaign, diplomatic efforts have not stopped.
Italy announced it will host a new round of US-mediated talks between Israel and Lebanon on August 4, while Washington has continued signalling that diplomatic channels with Tehran remain available if meaningful negotiations become possible.
What UAE Residents Should Know
Although the regional situation remains tense, normal life across the UAE continues without disruption.
Travelers should continue to check airline updates before departure, while businesses dependent on international shipping or fuel prices may experience the effects of ongoing market volatility.
With military operations ongoing and tensions around the Strait of Hormuz remaining elevated, aviation, shipping, and energy markets are likely to remain closely watched in the coming days.
Source: Gulf News
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Eight vessels diverted, one disabled as Washington expands maritime enforcement.
CentCom
