Morning update

Good morning Middle East Eye readers,

Tensions in West Asia are rising again after drone attacks in Saudi Arabia and the UAE added fresh pressure to an already fragile situation in the Gulf. Donald Trump has warned Tehran that the “clock is ticking” for a peace agreement, while Israeli officials are reportedly preparing for the possibility of renewed strikes on Iran

At the same time, violence continues across Lebanon and Gaza as concerns are growing over maritime security, aid convoys and the risk of wider escalation.

Here are the key developments that took place over the past few hours: 

Trump warns Iran that the “clock is ticking” for a peace deal with Washington

Israeli media reports military preparing for possible strikes on Iran

Saudi Arabia says it intercepted three drones entering from Iraq

UAE reports drone strike near Barakah nuclear power plant sparked a fire

Former IRGC commander calls US naval blockade an “act of war”

Israeli strike in eastern Lebanon kills a Palestinian Islamic Jihad leader and his daughter

Israel reportedly preparing to intercept Gaza-bound aid flotilla

Charity workers killed in Israeli strike on community kitchen in Gaza

Iran discusses Strait of Hormuz tensions with French and South Korean officials

CNN reports Iran is considering greater control over key internet cable routes