NBA will not travel to the Middle East this preseason due to war: report

President Donald Trump is reportedly in an ‘escalatory mood’ weighing options, with CENTCOM proposing intense air attacks on Iranian missile capabilities. Congressional leaders clash on new Iran sanctions and the conflict's potential impact on the upcoming midterm elections, referencing polls showing high disapproval rates on Trump's Iran policy and gas prices.

The NBA has played preseason games in the Middle East for four consecutive years, but the league will not be traveling there this year.

According to ESPN, the ongoing war overseas will halt the league from traveling there for a fifth year in a row.

Games have been played at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi since 2022, with the first game featuring the Washington Wizards against the Golden State Warriors. Two games have been played each year since.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

An overall view of tipoff during the game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the New York Knicks as part of the NBA Global Games Abu Dhabi on Oct. 2, 2025, at Etihad Arena in the United Arab Emirates. (NBAE via Getty Images)

The NBA has not made plans to head there during the regular season.

Two preseason games are slated to be held in China this October, marking the league's first time there since 2019. The league was yet to announce any games in the Middle East.

ESPN said the league had conversations with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Brooklyn Nets and Wizards about going to Saudi Arabia to play.

An overall view of Etihad Arena before the Denver Nuggets and Boston Celtics game on Oct. 6, 2024, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (NBAE via Getty Images)

ALABAMA BASKETBALL COACH NATE OATS MARRIES FORMER HOOPS STAFFER 20 YEARS HIS JUNIOR FOLLOWING DIVORCE

The NBA has