5 things to know for March 17: Travel disruptions in Middle East, Iran war, Gas prices, Cuba blackouts, Meatpacking workers | CNN

☘️ Happy St. Patrick’s Day, readers. Many parts of the world will look a bit greener today as people don the color to celebrate the holiday — including the Chicago River, famously dyed a vivid emerald each year. Beyond its religious roots, the holiday has evolved into a global celebration of Irish culture, marked by everything from shamrocks and leprechauns to corned beef and a spirited round (or two) of green beer. Here’s what else you need to know to get up to speed and on with your day. The war in Iran is continuing to disrupt travel across the Gulf after Iranian drone strikes triggered two major air incidents in recent days. Flights at Dubai International Airport were briefly suspended on Monday after a drone struck a nearby fuel tank, igniting a large fire. The shutdown forced cancellations and diversions as aviation authorities closed the airport. Part of the UAE’s airspace was also closed for a few hours overnight after the country said it was responding to incoming missiles and drone strikes from Iran. Meanwhile, the prices of many global airfares that bypass the Middle East are rising, as the conflict drives up oil prices and airlines warn of higher fuel costs