Mar 16 • 03:15 UTC 🇬🇧 UK Guardian

Middle East crisis live: Trump increases pressure on allies over strait of Hormuz; flights suspended at Dubai airport

Donald Trump is increasing pressure on US allies to contribute to keeping the strait of Hormuz open amid escalating tensions in the region, while flights at Dubai airport have been suspended due to a drone-related incident.

In the aftermath of the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran, President Donald Trump has amplified calls for NATO allies to support efforts to secure the strait of Hormuz, a crucial chokepoint through which approximately one-fifth of the world's oil passes. Recent reports indicate that Trump has requested several nations to deploy warships to ensure the safety of this vital route, emphasizing the urgency due to soaring oil prices driven by conflict-induced instability. However, his appeals have so far been met with reluctance as key countries like Australia and Japan have opted not to participate in such military support.

In addition to military tensions, civil aviation in the region is also affected, as flights were temporarily suspended at Dubai International Airport following a drone-related incident. This further illustrates the far-reaching consequences of the ongoing conflict, impacting not only strategic military operations but also international commerce and travel. Given Dubai’s significant role as a travel hub, any disruptions here can have a ripple effect on global trade and tourism.

The combination of geopolitical maneuvering and incidents affecting civilian infrastructure highlights the precarious situation in the Middle East, where diplomatic relations and economic stability are on a knife-edge. The ongoing developments demand careful monitoring, as they could escalate into broader conflicts or contribute to further disturbances in global markets, particularly energy supplies.

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