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Gulf on Edge as UAE Oil Hub Blaze Fuels Iran–US Tensions

  Smoke rises in the Fujairah oil industry zone, caused by debris after interception of a drone by air defences. A surge in regional tensions has followed a major fire at a UAE oil hub, sparked by debris from intercepted drones, as Iran vows retaliation for a recent U.S. strike on its Kharg Island oil facilities. The incident has intensified fears of broader conflict across the Gulf, with Iran warning that parts of the UAE could be considered legitimate targets.  A significant fire erupted at a major oil hub in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, after debris from intercepted drones fell onto the facility, disrupting operations and sending plumes of smoke across the region. The blaze occurred amid escalating hostilities following a U.S. strike on Iran’s Kharg Island—Tehran’s primary oil export terminal. Iran responded with sharp warnings, declaring that U.S. “hideouts” within the UAE could be targeted as legitimate military sites. The threat came as Iran continued missile and d...

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Hamas Tightens Grip on Gaza Amid Stalled Peace Efforts

 

                    People gather and shop at a local market, in Nuseirat, central Gaza Strip, November 13, 2025.

In the weeks following the latest ceasefire, Hamas has moved swiftly to reassert its authority across Gaza, filling the vacuum left by Israel’s withdrawal. Reports indicate that the group has carried out executions of Palestinians accused of collaborating with Israel or engaging in criminal activity, underscoring its determination to maintain dominance.

Beyond security measures, Hamas has expanded its influence into daily life. The group is regulating food prices, levying fees on cigarettes, and monitoring goods entering Gaza, signaling a return to its pre-war governance style. Residents say these actions highlight Hamas’ intent to remain the central power, despite international calls for the group to disarm and step aside.

Meanwhile, post-war negotiations remain deadlocked. Foreign powers—including the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Indonesia—are debating the formation of a multinational stabilization force to oversee Gaza’s transition. Indonesia has already trained thousands of troops for humanitarian and infrastructure roles, but deployment plans remain uncertain.

The lack of consensus on who should govern Gaza complicates efforts to move forward. While some factions push for the Palestinian Authority to take control, others doubt its ability to manage the enclave effectively. This uncertainty leaves Gazans caught between Hamas’ tightening grip and the slow pace of international diplomacy, raising questions about whether meaningful change is possible in the near future.


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