Argentina FC’s highly anticipated Finalissima match against Spain, scheduled for March 26, 2026, has been canceled due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The cancellation has prompted the Argentine team to pivot towards a friendly match against Mauritania, marking their first appearance of the calendar year.

The decision to cancel the Finalissima was confirmed amid escalating tensions in the region, which have disrupted Argentina’s international break. This situation has also affected their planned matches against Qatar, further complicating their preparation for upcoming competitions.

In light of the cancellation, Argentina will now face Mauritania, a team that has never qualified for the World Cup. The match presents an opportunity for Argentina to showcase their strength, especially as they have lost only twice in their last 12 matches. This friendly will serve as a crucial test for the squad as they look to maintain their momentum.

Alexis Mac Allister, who has earned 42 caps and scored six goals for Argentina, expressed disappointment over the cancellation of the Finalissima, stating, “It’s a shame (not to play the Finalissima) because it was a nice match. It didn’t happen and now we have to focus on the friendlies.” His sentiments reflect the team’s desire to compete at the highest level, despite the circumstances.

As Argentina prepares for the match against Mauritania, all eyes will be on Lionel Messi, who is chasing his 116th international goal. The friendly match provides an opportunity for Messi to further solidify his legacy as one of the greatest players in football history.

Argentina is expected to dominate the match, with predictions suggesting a scoreline of 5-0 in their favor. This confidence is bolstered by their recent performance, where they scored a total of eight goals in matches against Puerto Rico and Angola last November.

While the cancellation of the Finalissima is disappointing for fans and players alike, the focus now shifts to the upcoming friendly. As Mac Allister noted, “Matches are won on the pitch. We are players and we want to play, that’s the most important thing. I would like to play it later.” The team’s readiness to adapt to the situation highlights their resilience and commitment to the sport.

As the date approaches, the Argentine squad will be looking to make a strong statement against Mauritania, reaffirming their status as a formidable force in international football.

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Gas prices have jumped to four-year highs following recent attacks by Israel and Iran on gasfields, significantly impacting global energy markets. Brent crude oil prices surged by 8% to reach $116 a barrel before settling at $110 a barrel, reflecting the heightened tensions in the region.

European gas prices have also seen a substantial increase, with the Dutch wholesale gas price rising by 24% to €68 a megawatt hour. In the UK, gas prices rose by 23%, reaching 172p a therm, marking the highest level since August 2022. These developments come as crude prices have soared by 60% since the onset of the US-Israeli war on Iran, which began on February 28, 2026.

The conflict has had direct implications for global supply chains, particularly in liquefied natural gas (LNG). Iran’s attacks have damaged facilities responsible for 17% of QatarEnergy’s LNG export capacity, raising concerns about the stability of supply. Susannah Streeter, a market analyst, stated, “Fears of a sustained energy shock have resurfaced after the escalation in the Iran war sent oil and gas prices soaring.”

Authorities in Abu Dhabi have responded to the crisis by shutting down operations at the Habshan gas facility and Bab oilfield due to the Iranian attacks. This disruption is expected to have ripple effects across the global gas market, as noted by the energy consultancy Wood Mackenzie, which indicated that the attacks on Qatar’s LNG hub have altered the global gas market outlook.

Market observers are closely monitoring the situation, with warnings that oil prices could potentially reach $150 a barrel. One analyst remarked, “The price of gas in the world market will therefore inevitably rise, because that gas can’t be substituted very quickly at all, and maybe not for a very long time.” This sentiment underscores the uncertainty surrounding the energy market as geopolitical tensions continue to escalate.

As the situation develops, the impact on global energy prices remains a critical concern for economies reliant on stable gas supplies. The volatility in the market has already led to a 3.4% decrease in Japan’s Nikkei and a 2.4% decrease in the FTSE 100, reflecting investor anxiety over the potential for prolonged disruptions in energy supply.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the damage to gas facilities and the long-term implications for global energy prices. However, the immediate effects of the conflict are evident, with significant increases in gas prices and a shift in market dynamics that could have lasting repercussions.

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Pakistan and Afghanistan have reached a fragile agreement for a five-day ceasefire coinciding with Eid al-Fitr celebrations. This ceasefire, brokered by Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Qatar, aims to allow both nations to observe the holiday without further escalation of violence.

The ceasefire comes in the wake of serious allegations, with the Afghan government claiming that a Pakistani airstrike resulted in the deaths of 408 individuals at a drug rehabilitation hospital. Pakistan has denied these allegations, asserting that the airstrike targeted military installations instead.

Attaullah Tarar, a Pakistani official, stated, “Pakistan offers this gesture in good faith and in keeping with the Islamic norms,” highlighting the significance of the ceasefire during this religious occasion. However, Sirajuddin Haqqani, a prominent Afghan leader, responded with defiance, stating, “We will take revenge. We are not weak and helpless. You’ll see the consequences of your crimes.” This exchange underscores the ongoing tensions and the fragile nature of the ceasefire.

Eid al-Fitr was observed on Thursday following the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon, marking the end of Ramadan. The ceasefire is intended to facilitate celebrations, yet it is described as fragile, with no formal long-term framework announced. Observers note that religious occasions have historically provided limited windows for reduced violence in similar disputes.

In the lead-up to the ceasefire, civilian casualties in Afghanistan had been significant, with 76 deaths and 213 injuries recorded between February 26 and March 16. These figures illustrate the ongoing conflict and the urgent need for humanitarian pauses such as this ceasefire.

China welcomed the temporary ceasefire and praised the mediation efforts of Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Qatar, indicating a broader interest in stabilizing the region. However, the long-term sustainability of the ceasefire remains unclear, as does the exact number of casualties from the alleged airstrike, which details remain unconfirmed.

The ceasefire, framed as a humanitarian pause rather than a resolution to ongoing disputes, highlights the complexities of the relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan. As both nations navigate this fragile agreement, the international community will be closely monitoring developments to assess the potential for lasting peace.

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On March 18, 2026, Iranian missiles targeted Ras Laffan Industrial City in Qatar, causing extensive damage to the facility, which is home to the largest LNG export terminal in the world. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported following the attack.

The Qatari Foreign Ministry swiftly condemned the missile strike, labeling it a dangerous escalation and a violation of the nation’s sovereignty. This incident follows a series of Iranian drone strikes that had already forced Qatar to halt LNG production earlier in March.

Ras Laffan Industrial City is crucial to the global energy supply, accounting for nearly 20% of the world’s LNG exports. The attack has raised concerns about the stability of energy supplies, particularly as Brent crude prices surged more than 7% to $111.23 per barrel in the aftermath.

In a related development, Qatar declared military and security attaches from the Iranian embassy as persona non grata, giving them 24 hours to leave the country. This action reflects Qatar’s heightened security measures in response to ongoing threats from Iran, which has previously threatened to target oil and gas facilities across the Gulf region.

The geopolitical landscape has been increasingly tense, with Iran’s Revolutionary Guard previously indicating intentions to attack energy infrastructure in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital passage for global oil and LNG supply, remains a focal point of these escalating tensions.

Diesel prices in the United States have also seen a spike, rising above $5 a gallon, further illustrating the ripple effects of the conflict on global energy markets. The situation is compounded by the fact that the UAE has faced 327 ballistic missiles since the onset of these attacks.

QatarEnergy confirmed that all personnel at the Ras Laffan facility have been accounted for, emphasizing that no casualties have been reported at this time. The company reassured stakeholders that operations would be assessed and restored as soon as it is safe to do so.

In a statement, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated, “Qatar considers this assault a dangerous escalation, a flagrant violation of its sovereignty, and a direct threat to its national security.” The ongoing conflict has drawn international attention, with calls for de-escalation and dialogue among the involved parties.

As the situation develops, the implications for global energy supply and regional stability remain uncertain. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the damage and the potential for further retaliatory actions.

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“Part of the facilities of the South Pars and Asaluyeh oil industry were targeted an hour ago by a Zionist-American enemy attack,”

In a coordinated strike, the Israeli Air Force targeted Iran’s largest gas processing facility located in Asaluyeh, Bushehr province. The attack resulted in damage to gas storage tanks at South Pars, halting output at two refineries with a combined capacity of approximately 100 million cubic meters per day.

As a response to this incident, a crisis management headquarters has been established. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported so far. The Asaluyeh Governor stated, “These phases have been taken offline to control and prevent fire from spreading, and the situation is under control.”

Iran’s state media indicated that petrochemical facilities in South Pars were also targeted, although the extent of the damage remains unclear. Details remain unconfirmed.

Qatar’s foreign ministry condemned the attack, emphasizing that “targeting energy infrastructure constitutes a threat to global energy security, as well as to the peoples of the region and its environment,”

Historically, the South Pars gas field has been a critical source of natural gas supply not only for Iran but also for Türkiye. In 2025, daily gas production at South Pars reached a record 730 million cubic meters, showcasing its importance in the energy sector.

The attack is reportedly coordinated with the United States, which has been operating primarily in southern Iran. Iran has previously engaged in strikes against Qatar and other Gulf Arab nations during ongoing regional conflicts.

As the situation develops, the implications of these attacks on global energy markets and regional stability remain to be seen. The international community is closely monitoring the developments surrounding the South Pars gas field, given its significance in energy supply chains.

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Eid Al Fitr 2026 is expected to be celebrated on Friday, March 20, 2026, in countries that began Ramadan on February 18. This date is contingent upon the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon, which is a critical factor in determining the end of Ramadan.

For nations that commenced Ramadan a day later, on February 19, 2026, Eid may be observed on Saturday, March 21, 2026. The visibility of the crescent moon plays a significant role in this determination, as it must be sighted to officially declare the end of fasting.

Crescent Moon Visibility Challenges

The Shawwal crescent moon is not expected to be visible on March 18, 2026, making it impossible to declare Eid on that day. In Abu Dhabi, the crescent moon will set just 29 minutes after sunset on March 19, 2026, which presents challenges for visibility. Observers in the region may require telescopes to confirm the sighting.

Similarly, in Riyadh, the moon will set 30 minutes after sunset, while in Amman and Jerusalem, it will set 36 minutes after sunset on the same day. These timings indicate that the sighting of the crescent moon will be extremely difficult, which could lead to variations in the Eid celebration dates across different countries.

Holiday Observations in the Region

The UAE federal government has announced that the holiday for Eid Al Fitr will extend from March 19 to March 22, 2026, allowing citizens and residents to celebrate the occasion with family and friends. In Saudi Arabia, the Eid holiday will commence at the end of the workday on March 18, 2026, providing a brief respite for workers as they transition into the festive period.

In Bangladesh, the government has declared March 18, 2026, a public holiday, reflecting the significance of Eid Al Fitr in the region. This announcement aligns with the broader observance of the holiday, which is marked by communal prayers, festive meals, and acts of charity.

Historical Context and Expectations

Countries where Ramadan began on February 18 are expected to complete a full 30 days of fasting, a traditional practice that underscores the importance of the holy month in the Islamic calendar. Observers anticipate that the celebrations will be vibrant, with families coming together to mark the end of fasting and the beginning of the month of Shawwal.

As the date approaches, details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact timing of the crescent moon sighting, which could affect the final declaration of Eid in various regions. The anticipation surrounding Eid Al Fitr continues to build, with communities preparing for the festivities that signify unity and gratitude.

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Eid Al Fitr 2026 is expected to be celebrated on Friday, March 20, for countries that began Ramadan on February 18. This date is contingent upon the visibility of the Shawwal crescent moon, which is a crucial factor in determining the end of Ramadan.

For those nations that commenced Ramadan a day later, on February 19, 2026, Eid may be observed on Saturday, March 21, 2026. The visibility of the crescent moon is a significant aspect of this observance, as it marks the conclusion of the month-long fasting period.

Crescent Moon Visibility Challenges

On March 18, 2026, the Shawwal crescent moon will not be visible, making it impossible to declare Eid on that day. In Abu Dhabi, the crescent moon is expected to set just 29 minutes after sunset on March 19, which presents challenges for visibility. Observers note that seeing the crescent moon will be extremely difficult, requiring a telescope for confirmation.

In Riyadh, the moon will set 30 minutes after sunset on the same day, while in Amman and Jerusalem, the setting time is slightly longer at 36 minutes after sunset. These timings highlight the complexities involved in moon sighting, which can vary significantly by location.

Holiday Observances in the Region

The UAE federal government has announced that the holiday for Eid Al Fitr will extend from March 19 to March 22, 2026. In Saudi Arabia, the Eid holiday will commence at the end of the workday on March 18, allowing for a brief celebration leading into the weekend.

In Bangladesh, the government has declared March 18, 2026, a public holiday, which will contribute to a total of seven vacation days for the holiday period. This reflects the cultural significance of Eid Al Fitr, as families gather to celebrate the conclusion of Ramadan.

Historical Context and Expectations

Countries where Ramadan began on February 18 are expected to complete a full 30 days of fasting, a practice that is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition. The observance of Eid Al Fitr marks a time of joy and community, as families come together to share meals and give thanks.

As the date approaches, observers and communities will be keenly watching for the sighting of the crescent moon. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact timing of Eid celebrations in different regions, but the anticipation is palpable as preparations begin for this significant occasion.

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“It is a big sense of betrayal. Just an hour after the start of the war, Qatar and other Gulf countries have been attacked,” stated Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al Thani, the Prime Minister of Qatar. His remarks come in response to a series of missile and drone attacks attributed to Iran, which have raised tensions in the Gulf region.

Sheikh Mohammed described Iran’s strikes on Qatar’s neighbors as a “dangerous miscalculation,” emphasizing the need for de-escalation. He noted that Qatar has consistently sought to maintain constructive ties with Tehran, but the recent actions have strained those relations significantly.

“We have always tried to preserve a good relationship with Iran, but the justifications and pretexts they are using are completely rejected,” he added, highlighting the frustration felt by Qatar in light of the ongoing conflict.

The Prime Minister also warned that the conflict could destabilize the region and impact the global economy, calling for a diplomatic solution to the escalating tensions. “We continue to seek de-escalation. They are our neighbors – it’s our destiny,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of regional stability.

Qatar has been under repeated missile and drone attacks, which Sheikh Mohammed has condemned as a betrayal by Iran. He reiterated that Qatar will not participate in any wars against its neighbors, focusing instead on dialogue and peace.

In light of the current situation, Sheikh Mohammed called on the United States to help lower tensions in the region, indicating that international support may be crucial in navigating this crisis.

As the conflict continues to unfold, the implications for regional security and international relations remain significant. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the extent of the attacks and the response from other Gulf nations.

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In a significant escalation of hostilities, Iran has launched missile and drone attacks targeting Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Qatar, raising alarms across the Gulf region. These attacks have prompted Qatar’s Interior Ministry to declare a high security alert, reflecting the severity of the situation.

Qatar’s Response

Qatar, which supplies approximately 20% of the world’s gas, has been particularly affected, with international airports, water utilities, and gas infrastructure coming under fire. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al Thani, Qatar’s Prime Minister, described Iran’s strikes as a “dangerous miscalculation,” emphasizing the unexpected nature of the aggression from a neighboring country.

Context of the Conflict

The recent attacks from Iran appear to be a retaliatory response following significant strikes by the United States and Israel against Iranian positions. This backdrop of escalating military actions has created a precarious situation for Gulf nations, which have historically sought to maintain stability in the region.

Military Interceptions

In response to the missile threats, the UAE successfully intercepted several ballistic missiles and drones launched from Iran, showcasing the ongoing military tensions. Reports indicate that Kuwait’s Ministry of Defense recorded 14 ballistic missiles and 23 drones during this period, underscoring the scale of the threat posed by Iran.

Historical Ties and Future Prospects

Qatar has traditionally positioned itself as a global mediator, often engaging with various factions to foster dialogue. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al Thani remarked, “It is a big sense of betrayal,” reflecting the deep disappointment felt in Qatar regarding Iran’s actions. He further stated, “The miscalculation by the Iranians to attack Gulf countries has destroyed everything,” highlighting the potential for long-term ramifications on regional diplomacy.

Calls for De-escalation

Despite the ongoing conflict, Qatar continues to advocate for de-escalation, with the Prime Minister asserting, “We continue to seek de-escalation.” The emphasis on dialogue and negotiation remains a critical aspect of Qatar’s foreign policy, as the nation navigates the complexities of its relationships with neighboring countries.

Uncertain Future

As tensions rise, the international community watches closely, with many observers expressing concern over the potential for further escalation. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the damage and the implications for regional security. The situation remains fluid, and the responses from other Gulf nations, as well as the US and Israel, will be pivotal in shaping the future landscape of the Gulf region.

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“Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) announces the partial resumption of air navigation in the State of Qatar, through designated navigational contingency routes with limited operational capacity,” stated the QCAA in a recent announcement. This comes after a week of airspace closures due to incoming drones and missiles from Iran, which prompted Qatar to take precautionary measures starting February 28.

The reopening of Qatar’s airspace is a significant development for many stranded passengers. Qatar Airways has confirmed it will operate repatriation flights to key European cities, including London, Paris, Madrid, Rome, and Frankfurt, beginning on March 7. These flights are intended to assist those who have been unable to leave the country amid the ongoing conflict.

“Priority on these flights was given to stranded passengers with families, elderly passengers, and those with urgent medical and compassionate travel needs,” said a spokesperson for Qatar Airways. This prioritization underscores the airline’s commitment to addressing the needs of vulnerable travelers during this challenging time.

Passengers looking to utilize these flights must have confirmed bookings, as Qatar Airways has urged travelers not to go to the airport without prior confirmation. This careful approach is necessary given the limited operational capacity currently in place.

Since the onset of the conflict, more than 2,000 flights have been cancelled at Doha’s Hamad International Airport, with an estimated total of 23,000 flights cancelled since late February. The situation has led to significant disruptions in air travel across the region, affecting many airlines and their operations.

As the conflict continues, the humanitarian impact has been severe, with at least 1,332 reported deaths in Iran since the strikes began. The ongoing situation has prompted other airlines, such as Kuwait Airways, to reroute citizens with prior bookings through Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, highlighting the broader implications of the regional unrest.

While Qatar’s airspace reopening is a cautious first step towards restoring air links, it does not indicate a full return to normal operations. Regular flight schedules have not yet resumed, and further announcements regarding operational capacity are expected on March 8.

“We are working around the clock to organise additional relief flights where operationally possible and will share further updates as soon as they are confirmed,” the Qatar Airways spokesperson added. As the situation evolves, passengers are encouraged to stay informed and follow updates from their airlines directly before travelling to the airport.

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