Tensions in the Middle East intensify after the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed reports from Iran of a projectile strike near the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant. While no casualties or technical damage have been reported, the incident has added a fresh layer of volatility to an already fragile geopolitical situation. Iran has firmly rejected the United States’ ceasefire push, casting doubt on Washington’s reported 15-point plan. In a strongly worded statement on state television, Lt Col Ebrahim Zolfaghari accused the US of “negotiating with itself,” dismissing any claims of active diplomatic engagement. His message was clear and uncompromising - no deal, not now, not ever.

Amid the Iran war, Dubai’s International Financial Centre witnessed a security scare after debris from an intercepted Iranian drone sparked a fire on the facade of a building in the district. Authorities confirmed that the drone was successfully intercepted and the incident caused only minor damage, with no injuries reported. However, thick smoke rising from the area triggered security alerts across Dubai’s financial hub. The incident comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East after Iran threatened to target economic and financial centres linked to the United States and Israel. The IRGC had warned that banks and technology infrastructure connected to US and Israeli entities could become new targets in the conflict.