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UAE-Iran trade freeze raises economic stakes

The UAE is a critical trade partner for Iran and has been its largest source of imports for five consecutive years.

Ships are docked along a pier at the Khor Fakkan Container Terminal, the only natural deep-sea port in the region and one of the major container ports in Sharjah Emirate, along the Gulf of Oman, on July 14, 2026. — AFP via Getty Images

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The United Arab Emirates said on Tuesday it would cut trade with Iran, an economic blow that will likely be devastating for Tehran. Oil has continued to rise as regional attacks continue and the US and Iran still appear far from a deal. 

Meanwhile, Turkey has been moving to capitalize on Syria’s untapped oil reserves. Damascus has had an eventful week, having also moved to redefine its relationship with its historic ally, Moscow.

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