IRAN REJECTS UAE CLAIM OVER MISSILE LAUNCHES AT GULF WATERS

Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei rejected accusations from the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday, describing them as "baseless". The UAE had stated that Iran launched two ballistic missiles at maritime traffic in its territory a day earlier. Following the alleged incident, the UAE announced it would suspend all trade with Iran until further notice.

The reported missile launches form part of a broader pattern of military activity in the region. According to one account, Iran has struck targets in Qatar and the UAE since February, stating these actions constitute retaliation for the two countries' alleged allowance of United States and Israeli bases to be used for strikes against Iranian targets. Iran's neighbours have called on Tehran to cease such operations. Iran's domestic football league was suspended in February as attacks began, though it resumed last weekend with restrictions on attendance and venue capacity.

The dispute comes as Iranian football clubs have been confirmed to play at neutral venues in the Asian Champions League Elite competition, with matches beginning on 14 September. Tehran's Esteghlal and Tabriz-based Tractor will face clubs from the UAE and Qatar despite the ongoing regional tensions. The Asian Football Confederation drew the group stage on Tuesday, with Iranian clubs avoiding Saudi Arabian opponents in the west zone of the competition.