In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon is set to be extended as talks in Washington show signs of progress.

In the Strait of Hormuz, tensions remain high as the US and Iran warn of further escalation, with concerns over potential sea mines and risks to global shipping.

In Tehran, Iranian officials say the country has begun collecting tolls from vessels passing through the strait, as it seeks to assert control over the key waterway.

In Dubai, the UAE announces a plan to use artificial intelligence across half of all government services within two years, aiming to transform how the state operates.

And in Berlin, Emirates airline says it remains confident it can withstand the impact of the Iran war, citing strong demand and secure fuel supplies.

Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.