Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Aug. 5 (ANI): Multiple explosions followed by a significant fire were reported along the coast of the United Arab Emirates early Wednesday morning.
Iranian broadcaster Press TV, citing Arabic-language media and regional sources, reported that at least seven explosions were heard within a 20-minute span across the Jebel Ali industrial area in Dubai.
Press TV also reported that video footage showed massive columns of thick smoke rising from the vicinity of Jebel Ali Port. No individual or organization has claimed responsibility for the incident, according to the broadcaster.
Press TV also cited media reports stating that UAE authorities arrested two people for filming the fire after smoke began rising from the scene.
Located in southwestern Dubai, Jebel Ali is a major logistics, commercial, and industrial hub for the region.
The area includes Jebel Ali Port and the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), an international trade hub established in 1985 that is home to more than 11,000 companies from over 150 countries. Connected to major highways, Jebel Ali Port, and Al Maktoum International Airport, the complex remains a critical crossroads for global commerce, Press TV reported.
The incident comes as U.S. President Donald Trump said Tuesday (local time) that the Strait of Hormuz would reopen “very soon” as part of a deal involving Iran and Oman, while warning that the Islamic Republic would be “hit really hard” if it fails to reach an agreement during talks on an interim arrangement aimed at easing regional tensions.
Trump also reiterated his position that Iran would not be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon and linked the reopening of the strategic waterway to ongoing diplomatic efforts.
During an interview with Fox News, Trump said, “Iran, as an example, will never have a nuclear weapon. They already can’t, but it’s going to be formal. The strait’s going to be open very soon, or they’re going to get hit very hard, and then the strait’s going to be open.”
His remarks came as the United States, Iran, and Oman are reportedly close to finalizing an interim agreement aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which has experienced heightened tensions following the collapse of a 14-point memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran last month, Axios reported, citing two regional sources and a U.S. official.
According to Axios, the proposed arrangement is intended to restore the ceasefire between the United States and Iran and resume negotiations with Tehran, including discussions related to its nuclear program.
Trump said the United States had previously been preparing for a major military operation against Iran but decided to pursue diplomacy after receiving a request from Tehran for talks. (ANI)
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