UAE halts Iran trade as Gargash rejects visa cancellation rumours

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has ordered an immediate suspension of all trade exchanges, commercial activities, and financial transactions with Iran, according to the Strategic Communications Director at the ministry. The directive, issued on Wednesday, 19 August, comes as regional tensions escalate following nearly six months of conflict between the United States and Iran. UAE Rejects Claims of Visa Cancellations Dr. Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President, dismissed reports circulating on social media regarding the alleged cancellation of workers’ residency visas and the provision of financial facilities to Iran. Dr. Gargash described these claims as part of "desperate media campaigns" and stated that the UAE remains focused on navigating regional developments through tangible results rather than being distracted by false information. Military Warnings and Regional Impact The suspension of trade coincides with a direct warning from Iran's armed forces to Gulf nations. Ali Abdollahi, Chief of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces, stated on Wednesday, 19 August, that any assistance or facilitation provided to the U.S. military would be viewed as participation in "American military operations." This warning follows the redeployment of the USS George Washington to the Middle East to relieve the USS Abraham Lincoln. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump denied reports of active diplomacy, stating on Wednesday that "no talks or conversations" are…