Loud explosions echoed across Dubai, Doha, and Manama on Monday as Iran launches strikes into a third day against Gulf states in retaliation for recent US-Israeli attacks. Defense systems in Jerusalem activated to intercept incoming missiles amid reports of blasts there.
British Citizens Trapped in UAE
Nearly 94,000 British nationals vacationing in Dubai have registered contact details with the Foreign Office, with many now awaiting evacuation plans as fires spread across the region. Officials prepare contingency measures, including overland routes to Saudi Arabia from the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar.
Influencers Describe Night of Terror
Celebrities residing in Dubai shared harrowing accounts of sheltering during the assaults. Former TOWIE star Kate Ferdinand and ex-Apprentice contestant Luisa Zissman took their children to basements amid Saturday night’s missile strikes.
Kate Ferdinand posted on Instagram: “Thank you for all of your messages and sorry for the silence, I haven’t wanted to worry you all I just haven’t been able to find the words. We are safe. The government are doing an amazing job of keeping it that way and despite my nerves I feel we are in very safe hands.”
Many described it as the “scariest, worst nights of our lives,” noting constant overhead bangs while air defenses intercepted most threats. They emphasized feeling safe but terrified by the relentless explosions.
Workers clear debris from damage at the Fairmont hotel in Dubai caused by an Iranian strike.
UK Prime Minister Addresses Involvement
Prime Minister Keir Starmer approved a US request to use British military bases for strikes on Iranian missile sites. He stated: “Our partners in the Gulf have asked us to do more to defend them, and it’s my duty to protect British lives. This is in line with international law and we are publishing a summary of our legal advice.”
Sir Keir added: “We all remember the mistakes of Iraq and we have learned those lessons. We were not involved in the initial strikes on Iran and we will not join offensive action now. But Iran is pursuing a scorched-earth strategy so we are supporting the collective self-defence of our allies and our people in the region.”
This situation develops rapidly. Updates to follow.
