Chicago – March 16, 2026
In a sharp escalation of Middle East tensions, Iran’s armed forces have urged civilians in the United Arab Emirates to immediately evacuate areas around three major ports, citing the presence of US military operations that render them “legitimate targets.”
The directive, issued by Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters and reported by Fars News Agency on March 14, 2026, specifically names Jebel Ali Port in Dubai, Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi, and Fujairah Port. Tehran claims these facilities, among the world’s busiest, have been used by American forces for attacks on Iranian targets like Kharg Island, warning they “could be targeted in the coming hours.”
This follows US and Israeli strikes on Iran since late February, which killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and over 1,200 others, prompting Iranian retaliatory barrages across the region. The call targets citizens, residents, and workers, heightening fears of imminent conflict amid disrupted regional flights and US evacuation advisories for Americans.
The UAE has not yet responded publicly, as global observers brace for potential fallout on critical Gulf infrastructure.
