UAE Intercepts Iranian Drone Over Territorial Waters

The United Arab Emirates intercepted an Iranian drone over its territorial waters on Monday, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two nations.

The incident comes after a lull in fighting that lasted for several weeks, during which the US and Iran exchanged fire. The US has been ratcheting up economic pressure on Iran, hoping to force concessions from Tehran, including reopening the vital Strait of Hormuz to shipping.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway through which a fifth of the world's traded oil passes in peacetime. After the US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28, Iran established a chokehold on the strait, slowing ship traffic to a trickle.

The price of Brent crude oil has climbed above $90, up about 25% from the start of the war, presenting a growing problem for US President Donald Trump ahead of the midterm elections.