All Easter masses in Dubai have been cancelled as the conflict in the Middle East continues. In a statement on its website, the St Francis of Assisi Church at Jebel Ali in Dubai said “all Masses at our Church are cancelled until further notice”, as per government directives. This came after the Jebel Ali port area was designated a “legitimate target” by Iran due to alleged US military presence.
St Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubai published a similar announcement on its website, and said Good Friday’s mass would be livestreamed online instead. Today, April 3, the UAE National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority has just announced it was dealing with new missile threats. Gulf countries continue to be the targets of drone and missile strikes, more than a month into the war in Iran. Meanwhile, the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation reported multiple fires at the Mina al-Ahmadi refinery following a reported drone attack. The country’s Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy said Iran had hit one of its power and water desalination plants.
During the last few weeks, Iran has struck US allies in the Gulf, targeting oil refineries and other energy infrastructures, in retaliatory attacks for Operation Epic Fury. US President Donald Trump said his troops had « not even started » destroying what remains of Iran, warning that bridges and power plants could be targeted next unless Iran’s new leadership acts quickly.
Mr Trump also added that Iran’s New Regime President, Masoud Pezeshkian, who he claims is « much less radicalised and far more intelligent than his predecessors », is the person who asked for a ceasefire. But Iran has so far denied negotiations with the White House are happening and at this stage, it is not clear if the Iranian President has the power to speak on behalf of the regime.
The war has also affected oil prices, especially after the closure of the Straits of Hormuz. The US President, however, suggested in a new Truth Social post today his country could get the waterway vital for the passage of oil and gas to « easily open » with « a little more time ».
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has signalled Iran could face further sanctions if the vital waterway remains closed after holding talks with more than 40 nations from across the world.
She said collective action to increase pressure on Tehran was being discussed as she accused the country of trying to “hold the global economy hostage” with its stranglehold on the key trade route.
In the face of criticism by Mr Trump, Ms Cooper said that “our job is to take decisions in the UK national interest”.
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