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UK RAF Typhoons Equipped with APKWS for Middle East Drone Defense

UK RAF Typhoons Equipped with APKWS for Middle East Drone Defense

The UK Royal Air Force (RAF) has equipped its Eurofighter Typhoon FGR4 combat aircraft with the AGR-20A Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) laser-guided rockets for counter unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) operations in the Middle East. This development was announced by QinetiQ on May 17, 2026, following successful integration and testing of the system. The APKWS is designed to provide a low-cost, precision-guided solution for engaging small, agile targets such as drones. The RAF Typhoons, operating from bases in Cyprus and Qatar, have been tasked with providing air defense cover for several countries in the region, including Bahrain, Cyprus, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, especially following recent tensions involving the US and Israel against Iran. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed that these aircraft have engaged an undisclosed number of UAVs using their standard air defense loadout, which includes advanced air-to-air missiles.
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Iran Accuses UAE of Direct Role in Military Attacks at BRICS Meeting

Iran Accuses UAE of Direct Role in Military Attacks at BRICS Meeting

During a BRICS meeting in New Delhi, Iran's foreign minister accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of direct involvement in military operations against Iran. This accusation was reported by Iranian state media. The Iranian official, Araghchi, argued that the UAE's alliances, including those with U.S. bases and Israel, do not provide the security the UAE seeks and suggested that the UAE should reconsider its policy towards Iran. This development comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, where geopolitical alliances and conflicts have been a persistent issue.
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Takeaways from Trump's trip to China: Taiwan, a new framework for relationship and flattery for Xi

Takeaways from Trump's trip to China: Taiwan, a new framework for relationship and flattery for Xi

President Donald Trump’s three-day trip to China was unexpectedly dominated by discussions about Taiwan and a new framework for managing Washington and Beijing's complicated relationship
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Drone strike sparks a fire on the perimeter of UAE's nuclear power plant, shaking Iran war ceasefire

Drone strike sparks a fire on the perimeter of UAE's nuclear power plant, shaking Iran war ceasefire

A drone strike has targeted the Barakah nuclear power plant in the UAE, setting an electrical generator ablaze
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Iran's Foreign Minister Cites Lack of Trust as Barrier in U.S. Negotiations

Iran's Foreign Minister Cites Lack of Trust as Barrier in U.S. Negotiations

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has stated that a lack of trust is the primary obstacle in negotiations with the United States to end ongoing hostilities. Speaking in New Delhi, Araghchi expressed skepticism about the U.S.'s intentions, despite Iran's openness to diplomatic assistance from countries like China. President Trump has dismissed Iran's recent proposals, demanding the removal of highly enriched uranium from Iran to prevent nuclear weapon development. Meanwhile, separate negotiations between Israel and Lebanon have resulted in an extension of their ceasefire, with further talks scheduled. The situation remains tense, with Iran maintaining control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil passage, while the U.S. enforces a blockade on Iranian ports.
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Drone strike sparks fire on the edge of the UAE's nuclear power plant in latest blow to Iran truce

Drone strike sparks fire on the edge of the UAE's nuclear power plant in latest blow to Iran truce

A drone strike has targeted the United Arab Emirates’ sole nuclear power plant, sparking a fire on its perimeter
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Iran War Day 78: Trump and Tehran Signal Openness to Talks Amid Extended Lebanon Truce

Iran War Day 78: Trump and Tehran Signal Openness to Talks Amid Extended Lebanon Truce

On the 78th day of the ongoing conflict, Iran and the U.S. have signaled a willingness to engage in talks, as a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon is extended by 45 days. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated that the U.S. has shown openness to negotiations, although a deadlock remains over Iran's nuclear program. President Trump has suggested a potential agreement where Iran would halt its civilian nuclear program for two decades. Meanwhile, the conflict has resulted in significant casualties and damage in Iran, with over 1,260 people killed and thousands injured. The extension of the Lebanon truce offers a temporary reprieve in the region.
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BRICS Ministers Unable to Agree on Middle East Conflict Statement

BRICS Ministers Unable to Agree on Middle East Conflict Statement

The BRICS foreign ministers' meeting in New Delhi ended without a joint statement due to differing views on the Middle East conflict. The meeting, which included representatives from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members like Iran and the UAE, highlighted divisions within the bloc. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called for condemnation of US and Israeli actions, while the UAE opposed such language. The lack of consensus reflects the challenges BRICS faces in maintaining unity while expanding its influence.
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Lufthansa Group to Resume Tel Aviv Flights Amid Regional Tensions

Lufthansa Group to Resume Tel Aviv Flights Amid Regional Tensions

Lufthansa Group carriers are set to gradually resume flights to Tel Aviv, which had been suspended since the outbreak of the Iran conflict in late February. Austrian Airlines will restart its services to Israel from the beginning of June, followed by Lufthansa Airlines and Swiss International Air Lines in early July. Eurowings, the leisure unit of Lufthansa, plans to resume its flights by mid-July. Meanwhile, Brussels Airlines has extended its suspension of Tel Aviv flights until October 24. The decision to resume these routes comes after a comprehensive safety and security assessment by Lufthansa. Additionally, low-cost carrier Wizz Air has announced plans to resume its Tel Aviv flights from May 28. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued an updated advisory for airspace in the Middle East, recommending caution for flights in the region.
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Tensions flare up over Strait of Hormuz as ship is reported seized and heading toward Iran

Tensions flare up over Strait of Hormuz as ship is reported seized and heading toward Iran

Tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz are escalating again after a ship anchored off the United Arab Emirates was seized and taken toward Iran and another was attacked and sank near the coast of Oman
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UAE Maintains Discreet Security Ties with Israel Amid Political Sensitivities

UAE Maintains Discreet Security Ties with Israel Amid Political Sensitivities

The United Arab Emirates continues to maintain discreet security ties with Israel, despite public denials of a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The UAE's strategic relationship with Israel, established under the Abraham Accords, has deepened amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. However, the UAE's swift denial of Netanyahu's visit highlights the political sensitivities surrounding their cooperation. Analysts suggest that the UAE prefers to keep its security ties with Israel out of the public eye to avoid regional backlash and maintain its diplomatic standing.
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Eurovision 2026 Second Semifinal Concludes with 10 Countries Advancing to Final

Eurovision 2026 Second Semifinal Concludes with 10 Countries Advancing to Final

Eurovision 2026 Second Semifinal Concludes with 10 Countries Advancing to Final