Major Fire at Dubai's Fairmont Hotel Following Alleged Missile Strike
A significant fire has broken out at the Fairmont Hotel located on Dubai's iconic Palm Jumeirah, with reports indicating it was hit by a missile. The incident has prompted urgent safety warnings for British nationals across several Gulf states.
Escalating Regional Tensions and Immediate Aftermath
The blaze erupted hours after former US President Donald Trump announced that the United States had initiated major combat operations in Iran overnight. Concurrently, Israel's Defence Minister stated that Israel launched a preventative attack against Iran, with Israel Katz describing the strikes as necessary to remove threats.
Witnesses in Tehran reported hearing explosions, and the Associated Press confirmed that the US is participating in Israel's strikes. In response, Iran has reportedly launched dozens of strikes against Israel and US military targets across the Middle East.
Local Impact and Safety Advisories
In Dubai, residents reported a loud bang near the Marina area, causing people to run for cover. In Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, a death was reported after debris fell on a residential area.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued updated advice, urging British nationals in Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Kuwait to immediately find shelter. The advisory states: Remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel, and follow instructions from the local authorities.
Images circulating on social media show the Fairmont Hotel engulfed in flames, highlighting the severity of the situation as regional conflicts intensify.
