Thousands have been left stranded in the Middle East as flights are cancelled due to the conflict

Holidaymakers from Northern Ireland in the Middle East have described their “frightening experience” as they take shelter in their hotels amid the sound of explosions.

Thousands of people have been left stranded in a number of Middle Eastern countries this weekend after Iran launched missile strikes against four Gulf Arab nations hosting US military bases — Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the UAE, after it was attacked by the US and Israel on Saturday. During these strikes Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed.

The retaliation strikes from Iran have hit a number of popular hotels in cities like Dubai with flights from the UAE being suspended.

READ MORE: Irish expat in Dubai describes terror as missile strikes shake homesREAD MORE: USS Abraham Lincoln ‘targeted with ballistic missiles’ after Iran’s Supreme Leader killed

Tourists have had to take shelter in underground car parks and hotel rooms and have said they are desperate to leave the country for their own safety.

One NI holidaymaker told Belfast Live: “On Saturday afternoon we heard some loud explosions directly overhead which we later found out were the result of missile interceptions.

“On advice of UK Embassy we took shelter in our hotel room and have remained there ever since. A lot of normal activity seemed to continue on Saturday but Sunday definitely feels quieter. A very frightening experience overnight with constant loud bangs and noises.

“Looks like all flights cancelled until 3pm UAE time tomorrow as minimum. Yes everybody just keen to get safely out of the country.”

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said the situation in the Middle East will leave many people feeling apprehensive following a meeting with a UK Government advisor.

She said: “I know that many, many people will be really apprehensive about what is happening in Iran and across the Middle East.

“The Iranian regime is an appalling one, it has created a huge amount of instability in the region, it has killed many thousands of its own citizens.

“I know that there are many hundreds of people from Northern Ireland who are living and working in the Middle East, particularly in the UAE and of course many others that are visiting the region as well.

“I know that there are a lot of people worried about their loved ones and families at the moment.”

The deputy First Minister said the briefing, which was also attended by the Scottish and Welsh First Ministers, was an opportunity to raise questions.

She added: “Also to try to push to ensure that the clear messages are coming out from the UK Government, clear advice to people who are in the region in terms of making sure that all of the support is there to keep people safe.”

A fresh wave of blasts was heard in Dubai and in the Qatari capital of Doha on Sunday as defence forces intercepted missiles headed their way in response to US and Israeli attacks.

The UAE is home to one of Ireland’s largest diasporas per capita, with an estimated 14,000 Irish nationals residing in the country, many of whom live in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs has urged Irish citizens in the Middle East to “shelter in place” following a sharp escalation in conflict across the region.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee said there are currently “no evacuation routes recommended for Gulf countries” as she urged Irish citizens “not to pursue anything other than a shelter in place strategy”.

Ms McEntee added: “I want to provide a further update on the situation in the Gulf and the implications for Irish citizens there,” Minister McEntee said in a statement Sunday.

“A large number of Irish citizens, in particular in the UAE, are already on our Citizen Registration platform, with several hundred registering yesterday. I would encourage anyone in the region either resident or transiting to register.

“I am also aware of suggestions of consideration of land routes to neighbouring countries, such as Oman. However, I strongly urge citizens not to pursue anything other than a shelter in place strategy for now.”

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is urging Brits abroad in the Middle East to inform the government of their whereabouts for support.

In a post on X, the office said in a statement: “British nationals in Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Palestine, Qatar and UAE can register their presence to receive direct updates from the FCDO on the situation in the Middle East.

“You should continue to follow our travel advice for the country you are in and the advice of the local authorities.”

The FCDO also advises British nationals currently in the city of Duqm, Oman, “should immediately shelter in place”.

“Any British nationals currently visiting Salalah, or within 100km, should look to leave as soon as possible if commercial means allow. Remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel and follow instructions from the local authorities.”

It advises against “all but essential travel” only to Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the UAE.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed sadness over the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

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Russia has threatened retaliation against Europe with Russian propagandists claiming Donald Trump “unwittingly creating political and psychological opportunities.”

Yesterday (February 28) Russian President Vladimir Putin paid tribute following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Russian President called the act “a murder committed in cynical violation of all norms of human morality and international law”.

Speaking about Russia ’s next move, Sergey Karnaukhov, a former president and CEO of The Centre for the National Interest, and Dimitri Simes, a former president and CEO of The Centre for the National Interest, highlighted what needs to be done as he blames Europe for “waging war” against Russia.

The Express reports in the conversation with Vladimir Solovyov on channel Solovyov Live, he said: “Estonia is waging war against us. I think we should give it some thought that Mr Trump unwittingly created political and psychological opportunities for us, he untied our hands for our Supreme Commander in chief to do whatever he finds appropriate to do for the nation’s security.”

The host of the show continued issuing threats to Europe. Mr Solovyov said: “But we see what is happening, the only language Europe understands is the language of force, and only when the force is used against them. They saw that Oreshnik was used twice and decided they are protected in their little house.

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“It’s clearly time to strike their little house.”

The Russian Foreign Ministry had sharply denounced the joint US‑Israeli military operation in Iran the previous day, describing it as “a pre‑planned and unprovoked act of armed aggression against a sovereign and independent UN member state” and a violation of core principles of international law.

In Moscow’s view, “Washington and Tel Aviv have once again embarked on a dangerous adventure that is rapidly bringing the region closer to a humanitarian, economic and, not exclude, a radiological catastrophe.”

The Russian Foreign Ministry claimed that the US and Israel are “covering themselves with an imaginary concern to prevent the Iranians from acquiring nuclear weapons,” while in fact their main goal, according to Moscow, is “to destroy the constitutional order and destroy the leadership of a state they do not like, which has refused to submit to forceful dictate and hegemonism.”

The foreign ministry also appealed to Russians in Iran and Israel to leave these countries immediately if possible.

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They now face a Chelsea side who have not beaten Arsenal in any competition since August 2021 – a run of 10 matches and seven defeats, including both legs of their recent Carabao Cup semi-final tie. Liam Rosenior’s tactics in that late 1-0 loss in N5 last month certainly proved divisive and he has criticised his team in the weeks since after their top-four hopes were hit by frustrating draws with Leeds and Burnley as their disciplinary issues continued.

“He has had a huge impact and is making big improvements,” Carrick said of Sesko. “He is getting used to being here. He is desperate to do well and is a pleasure to work with. He is a real threat. I’m really excited about where he can get to. He’s got huge potential.”

There is little doubt the United coach has enjoyed some good fortune since taking over. First Diogo Dalot escaped what should have been a red card for a studs-up challenge against Jeremy Doku in the derby against Manchester City, and then Tottenham were reduced to 10 men after half an hour when Cristian Romero was sent off. Here, Palace spent much of the second half with a man down. Equally, Carrick could argue that you make your own luck.

Despite Oliver Glasner’s grumblings, the rules state Christopher Kavanagh was right to award a penalty, even though Lacroix had initially grabbed hold of Cunha outside the penalty area before the Brazilian eventually tumbled in the box.

Fernandes coolly converted the spot-kick and it was the turning point United needed because they had struggled in the first period.

United have offloaded four wingers over the past nine months – Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho and Antony – and while not too many fans were sad to see that quartet depart, it has left the team short of recognised wide players. The situation on the left flank has been further exacerbated by a hamstring injury to Patrick Dorgu.

Cunha has been occupying that position for the most part, but he is a No. 10 at heart and his desire to routinely cut inside really narrowed the pitch against Palace.

With Luke Shaw unable to overlap from left back  like he used to, United lacked width on that side and it helped the visitors. The situation did not improve when Shaw went off in the 24th minute and Noussair Mazraoui, a right footer, filled in at left-back.

Palace losing Lacroix was a significant boost for United and liberated Carrick’s side, Cunha included. The south Londoners, in the end, were lucky not to lose by more, with Henderson making fine saves to deny Casemiro and Amad Diallo.

So it is six wins during an unbeaten seven-match run now for Carrick. They have built up a real head of steam.

Richard was last seen on Minerva Road, Bolton at around 4.20pm on Saturday, February 28.

The 39-year-old is described as white, with a medium build, average height, with short blonde hair and blue eyes.

He is believed to be wearing a black coat with a hood, a nude-coloured jumper, and black jogging bottoms.

Officers are becoming increasingly concerned about him and want to make sure he is safe and well.

Anyone with information about his whereabouts should contact Greater Manchester Police (GMP) on 101 or 0161 856 2661.

Good afternoon, and welcome to live coverage of Fulham vs Tottenham Hotspur from the Premier League, with the visitors desperately looking to climb away from the relegation zone. 

Spurs currently sit 16th in the table, just four points above West Ham United in 18th, with relegation now an alarmingly possible prospect for the north London club after failing to win any of their nine league games since the turn of the year. 

West Ham’s 5-2 defeat at Liverpool on Saturday means Spurs will not slide any further towards the drop zone this weekend, but with Nottingham Forest making the trip to Brighton this afternoon, defeat at Craven Cottage could see them slip to 17th by full time.

Igor Tudor’s appointment did not have the desired effect for last weekend’s north London derby, with an injury-ravaged Spurs losing 4-1 against Arsenal for the second time this season.

Despite Pedro Porro and Kevin Danso becoming available for selection this weekend, the Spurs boss will continue to be hamstrung by absences and admitted on Thursday that the job at hand is harder than he expected.

Spurs take on a Fulham side who ended a run of three successive defeats last weekend with an impressive 3-1 victory away at Sunderland, who had previously lost just once at the Stadium of Light this season. 

Marco Silva’s side start the afternoon in 10th but could climb up to eighth with victory against Spurs, who they have beaten in three of their last four league meetings. 

Having claimed a 2-1 win at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in November, the west London outfit have the opportunity to complete the league double over Spurs for the second time in their history and for the first time since the 2003-04 campaign. 

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Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed sadness over the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Advertisement

Russia could carry out retaliation strikes against Europe following Iran’s missile attacks. The threat was made by Russian propagandists who claimed Donald Trump “unwittingly creating political and psychological opportunities.”

Yesterday (February 28) Russian President Vladimir Putin paid tribute following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Russian President called the act “a murder committed in cynical violation of all norms of human morality and international law”.

Speaking about Russia ’s next move, Sergey Karnaukhov, a former president and CEO of The Centre for the National Interest, and Dimitri Simes, a former president and CEO of The Centre for the National Interest, highlighted what needs to be done as he blames Europe for “waging war” against Russia.

The Express reports in the conversation with Vladimir Solovyov on channel Solovyov Live, he said: “Estonia is waging war against us. I think we should give it some thought that Mr Trump unwittingly created political and psychological opportunities for us, he untied our hands for our Supreme Commander in chief to do whatever he finds appropriate to do for the nation’s security.”

The host of the show continued issuing threats to Europe. Mr Solovyov said: “But we see what is happening, the only language Europe understands is the language of force, and only when the force is used against them. They saw that Oreshnik was used twice and decided they are protected in their little house.

Advertisement

“It’s clearly time to strike their little house.”

The Russian Foreign Ministry had sharply denounced the joint US‑Israeli military operation in Iran the previous day, describing it as “a pre‑planned and unprovoked act of armed aggression against a sovereign and independent UN member state” and a violation of core principles of international law.

In Moscow’s view, “Washington and Tel Aviv have once again embarked on a dangerous adventure that is rapidly bringing the region closer to a humanitarian, economic and, not exclude, a radiological catastrophe.”

The Russian Foreign Ministry claimed that the US and Israel are “covering themselves with an imaginary concern to prevent the Iranians from acquiring nuclear weapons,” while in fact their main goal, according to Moscow, is “to destroy the constitutional order and destroy the leadership of a state they do not like, which has refused to submit to forceful dictate and hegemonism.”

The foreign ministry also appealed to Russians in Iran and Israel to leave these countries immediately if possible.

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Here are all the road closures in and around the town you should be aware of this week (March 2-6):

Blackwell

A road closure affecting Blackwell is currently in place due to ongoing utility repair and maintenance works conducted by Northern Gas Networks.

The closure began on January 5 and will remain until April 15.

The restrictions are expected to cover the area from the junction with Bridge Road to the junction with Carmel Road South.

Grainger Street West Back

In addition, Grainger Street West Back will see a road closure starting on March 2 and lasting until March 6.

Northumbrian Water is set to carry out utility asset works, specifically excavating to construct a new manhole.

The work zone is located at the rear of properties numbered 1 to 23 Hawthorn Street.

Roberts Walk

Effective from March 3 to March 4, Roberts Walk will be closed for another round of road works.

Yarm Road (A66 Roundabout to Sadberge Road Roundabout)

From March 2 until March 15, Yarm Road, particularly the segment between the A66 roundabout and the Sadberge Road roundabout, will be closed for road works.

The restrictions are set to remain in place as works are carried out on the carriageway.

Abbey Road

Ongoing works on Abbey Road, which began on February 23 and are expected to continue until April 17, will also affect traffic in the area.

Darlington Borough Council is undertaking highway improvement works, with the restrictions expected from the Carmel Road North junction to past the Neville Road junction.

The first phase entails installing speed tables and improving the footways.

Milbank Road

Meanwhile, Milbank Road is currently closed until March 8 due to highway improvement activities.

The closure, which commenced on February 23, is related to civil preparation works and carriageway resurfacing efforts.

Thompson Street West

Thompson Street West remains closed for ongoing utility asset works executed by Northern Powergrid (Northeast) PLC.

The work started on January 21 and is set to end on March 26. It involves excavating approximately 750 meters of footway and carriageway to install new underground electric cables.

The restrictions are expected to remain in place to ensure safe working conditions.

Myrtle Gardens

Another road closure in place is Myrtle Gardens, which will remain in effect until March 9.

Northern Gas Networks is working on utility repair and maintenance in the area, specifically at the junction with Mayfair Road and nearby properties.

This is part of an extensive project that aims to replace outdated infrastructure.

Harrowgate Village

Looking further ahead, Harrowgate Village will experience restrictions due to highway improvement works scheduled from March 31, 2025, until March 27.

These major road closures will cover the area from Dewberry Lane to the Village Hall, and are part of S278 works for a new development, meaning significant traffic disruption could be expected in the future.

Beaumont Hill

Similarly, Beaumont Hill will also be affected by highway improvement works during the same period.

The closure from Dewberry Lane to 25 Beaumont Hill will coincide with ongoing works by Darlington Borough Council, further hindering traffic through the area as improvements are made.

Lime Lane

Lastly, Lime Lane will be closed for highway improvement works from March 2 to March 13.

The planned closures will encompass the carriageway from Lodge Lane, extending approximately 1800 meters along Lime Lane.

Residents should prepare for potential disruptions during this essential maintenance window.

Residents and motorists are encouraged to allow extra travel time during these closures and to follow all posted detour signs for safety and convenience.

A mass shooting at a bar in Austin is being investigated as a possible act of terrorism after “indicators” were found on the gunman and in his vehicle, according to the FBI.

The shooting at Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden in the Texas city’s entertainment district left three people dead, including the shooter, and at least 14 others wounded.

The suspect, whose name was not immediately released, drove past the bar several times before stopping and shooting a pistol out the window of his SUV at people on a patio and in front of the bar, Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said at a news conference Sunday.

The gunman then parked his vehicle, got out with a rifle, and began shooting at people walking in the area before officers who ran to the intersection shot him, Davis said.

The FBI said it is investigating whether the shooting was act of terrorism because of “indicators” found on the gunman and in his vehicle. The agency didn’t elaborate on what items were found.

“It’s still too early to make a determination on that,” Alex Doran, the acting agent in charge of the FBI’s San Antonio office, said.

The shooting happened outside Buford’s just before 2 a.m. along the Sixth Street, a nightlife destination filled with bars and music clubs and only a few miles from the University of Texas.

Police were already nearby when they got reports of a shooting and raced to the scene.

EMS Chief Robert Luckritz said emergency workers were at the scene of the shooting less than a minute after receiving a call for assistance.

He confirmed that three people were found dead at the scene and that 14 others had been wounded. Three of the injured were admitted to regional hospitals in critical condition.

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson praised the speedy response during the press conference.

“Our hearts go out to the people that are victims of this. And I want to again reiterate my thanks to our public safety officers and officials that so rapidly were on the scene,” Watson said. “They definitely saved lives.”

The FBI is joining with the Austin Police Department to investigate the shooting.

“This is a tragic, tragic incident,” Davis said. “Our federal partners are here, as well as others, and this will be a scene that will take several hours to process.”

Police were still examining the scene on Sunday morning, according to the Austin American-Statesman. Some officers were reportedly gathering surveillance video from the area of the shooting and collecting witness statements from those still at the scene.

A former Buford’s manager told the paper that none of the restaurant’s staff were injured in the attack.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.