Liverpool Icon Graeme Souness Trapped in Abu Dhabi Following Iran Strikes
Football legend Graeme Souness has found himself stranded at Abu Dhabi International Airport, unable to return home to the United Kingdom amid escalating military tensions in the Middle East. The 72-year-old Scot had been working in the United Arab Emirates as an ambassador for Liverpool Football Club and was planning to fly back in time for Sunday's highly anticipated Old Firm clash between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox Stadium.
Chaos Erupts as Strikes Disrupt Travel
Souness shared a chilling update via Instagram, describing how he heard "loud bangs" overhead while waiting at the airport. These sounds were reportedly anti-missile systems intercepting projectiles fired at American bases in the region. The chaos began on Saturday morning when the United States and Israel launched coordinated attacks on Iran, prompting Iranian forces to retaliate against locations including Dubai, Doha, Bahrain, and Kuwait—all sites with US military installations or allied ties.
Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the UAE, confirmed the suspension of all flights departing from Abu Dhabi until 2pm UAE time on Sunday, March 1st. Arriving flights scheduled before that time have been cancelled, leaving thousands of travellers, including many British citizens, in limbo.
Souness Provides Harrowing Account
In his social media video, Souness expressed his frustration but also reflected on the gravity of the situation. "You get grumpy—well I do—when you get delayed and stuff at airports," he said, "but I think we should think of people that maybe at this point might die." He recounted his mother's advice: "Wherever you are, there's never a dull moment," adding wryly that this certainly applied to his current predicament.
The former midfielder revealed that his flight had been cancelled, and with explosions still audible, he and others had decided to check into a hotel for a couple of nights to wait out the turmoil. "Hopefully, this will settle down and we'll get back on our flight," he stated, though he acknowledged missing the Rangers-Celtic match, which he described as "the biggest game of the season for me."
Broader Conflict Context
The travel disruptions stem from a significant escalation in Middle Eastern hostilities. US President Donald Trump announced that "a lot" of Iran's leadership had been targeted, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Simultaneously, the Israel Defence Forces claimed to have "eliminated" key figures in Iran's defence leadership as part of an "opening salvo" of attacks.
This military action has reverberated across the region, affecting not only diplomatic and security operations but also civilian life and travel. Airports in several Gulf states have implemented emergency measures, with Abu Dhabi International Airport remaining closed until Sunday afternoon local time.
Impact on Travellers and Future Uncertainty
Souness's experience highlights the wider plight of travellers caught in the crossfire of geopolitical conflict. His account underscores the suddenness with which such events can unfold, turning routine journeys into ordeals. As authorities monitor the situation, there is no clear timeline for when normal flight operations might resume, leaving many uncertain about their return plans.
The football community has expressed concern for Souness's safety, with fans and colleagues hoping for a swift resolution to the crisis. For now, the Liverpool ambassador remains in Abu Dhabi, awaiting a break in the violence that has upended his travel and sporting plans.
