Iran

China–UAE News

UAE Hopes for US-Iran Diplomatic Breakthrough While Preparing for Regional Escalation

The United Arab Emirates is hoping for a diplomatic breakthrough in indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States, senior Emirati official Anwar Gargash said. Speaking at a conference in Bahrain, Gargash stated that another round of conflict is not in regional interests, though the UAE is braced for worst-case scenarios. The remarks come as Qatari mediators facilitate indirect talks amid renewed threats of military strikes.

China–UAE News

Reuters Investigation Uncovers Covert Iranian Military Procurement Network Involving UAE and China

A Reuters investigation reported by Yemen Monitor reveals Iran created a covert network of over 5,000 front entities to procure at least $2 billion in military goods since January 2025. The investigation identified shipments originating from China, Russia, and Germany, alongside $27 million in maritime imports from the UAE. Around 97% of transactions avoided cross-border banking transfers through the use of overseas intermediaries and offshore accounts.

Industry News

Iran Conflict Disrupts Persian Gulf Oil and Gas Shipments via Hormuz

Tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed to a near standstill following military strikes and retaliatory attacks on Gulf energy infrastructure. According to the International Energy Agency, the conflict represents the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market. Disrupted energy flows have triggered sharp increases in international crude and refined fuel prices and pushed European natural gas futures significantly higher.

Policy & Legal Updates

Iran Approves 42 Foreign Investment Projects Worth $228 Million Including China and UAE

Iran's Foreign Investment Board has approved 42 foreign investment applications valued at $228 million across multiple economic sectors, according to the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Finance. The approved capital includes funding from investors in China, the United Arab Emirates, Russia, the United Kingdom, and other nations. Since March 21, 2026, the board has cleared 398 foreign investment projects totaling $3.2 billion.