Hormuz deal ‘close’: What’s the latest on each side’s positions?

Iran and Oman are reportedly close to finalizing a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil and LNG supplies. The agreement, which involves establishing agreed-upon shipping routes, is described by Iran as being in the final drafting stage, pending a joint statement. However, US officials state they will not accept any arrangement that places Iran in control of the strait, emphasizing that any temporary routes should not require permits or fees. While Iran claims negotiations are solely with Oman and insists the US naval blockade must be lifted for the strait to reopen, the US rejects Iranian control over traffic. This deal does not signify an end to broader tensions between Iran and the US.

Iran has announced that a deal with Oman to reopen the Strait of Hormuz is nearing finalization. Reports indicate that under this proposed agreement, Tehran would control inbound traffic. An understanding has been reached on the coordinates for a shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz. Separately, Donald Trump has responded to media reports about US weapon shortages, stating the US has substantial munitions and is increasing manufacturing, while vowing to prosecute those who leaked such information. The article also mentions overnight Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon that injured eight people.

US Vice President JD Vance defended the Trump administration's negotiations with Iran, describing the process as complex and uneven due to Iran's difficult nature and fractured government. Vance stated that some within Iran desire an end to the war, while others, whom he characterized as "crazy radicals," wish for it to continue. He emphasized the administration's goal of navigating these internal divisions to achieve the best outcome for the American people and the President. Vance acknowledged that progress in negotiations can appear inconsistent.

Iran, Oman, and the US are reportedly close to an interim agreement aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global oil supplies. Negotiations, mediated by Oman, seek to restore a June ceasefire, resolve shipping disputes, and create space for broader talks on Iran's nuclear program. US President Trump expressed optimism about a deal being imminent, while Iran denies direct talks with Washington, stating discussions are with Oman regarding the strait's management. Tensions remain high, with a recent incident involving a struck cargo ship and significantly disrupted commercial traffic. The core of the negotiations involves who controls the strait and Iran's potential to impose fees, with mediators working to balance shipping resumption with the security concerns of Iran and Oman.

Iran and Oman have reached an understanding on the geographic coordinates for a shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, with a joint announcement being finalized, according to Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson. This agreement, if not interfered with by third parties, would give Tehran control over ships entering the Gulf. However, Iran stated that this bilateral agreement alone would not guarantee the waterway's security. The deal is seen as a potential step towards a broader ceasefire with the United States, which could reopen the strait for marine traffic and lift a US blockade on Iranian ports. Sources indicated that while negotiations are progressing, important details still need to be agreed upon, and assertions of an imminent reopening of the strait by the US were pushed back.

Iran and Oman have agreed on a route for ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz and are finalizing arrangements for joint management of the passage, according to Iran's foreign ministry. This agreement comes after Iran reportedly seized de facto control of the strait following the start of a war against the country on February 28. Iran denies claims by US President Donald Trump that it is seeking a deal to reopen the route, stating instead that it is making arrangements with Oman. The geographical coordinates for the agreed route have been finalized, and a joint statement detailing the agreements is in the final drafting stage, provided no third parties obstruct the process.

Iran has announced it is in the final stages of an agreement with Oman to establish a new shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz. This move comes amidst ongoing tensions with the United States, which Iran claims is responsible for insecurity in the strait due to naval blockades and aggressive actions. The new route is described as temporary, potentially lasting two to four months. Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has decreased since the start of a conflict, with Iran previously stating that all passage requires prior clearance and has attacked vessels that did not comply. A previous Memorandum of Understanding between Iran and the US aimed at resolving issues in the strait and ending a war quickly failed.

The United States reports progress in talks between Oman and Iran aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz for safe shipping. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that negotiations are ongoing, with the US Treasury Secretary suggesting an agreement could be reached imminently. Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson described the discussions with Oman as "positive," focusing on establishing safe shipping lanes. While a deal appears close, key differences remain regarding operational mechanisms, fees, and security arrangements. These diplomatic efforts occur amidst ongoing regional tensions, including recent drone and projectile attacks in Yemen and Saudi Arabia, highlighting the fragile nature of the diplomatic process.

US and Qatari officials report progress in negotiations aimed at restoring a ceasefire with Iran and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Mediators, including Qatar, Pakistan, and Oman, are exchanging proposals between Washington and Tehran to bridge gaps and revive a prior ceasefire deal. While optimistic speculation led to a 2% drop in oil prices, the strait remains closed, and a cargo vessel was reportedly struck near Oman. The negotiations, involving Oman and Iran directly, focus on establishing safe shipping routes, with a temporary transit scheme being discussed. Disagreements within Tehran and pressure from regional powers like Saudi Arabia complicate the talks.

Qatar is engaged in ongoing indirect talks aimed at preventing further regional escalation, according to Dr. Majed al-Ansari, spokesman for the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These discussions are focused on the potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The specific timing and location of these indirect talks are not detailed in the provided content. The primary objective of these diplomatic efforts is to de-escalate regional tensions.

Rival Iranian political factions are reportedly using the name of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei to advance their own positions and undermine opponents, amidst ongoing questions about his active governance. Competing accounts have emerged regarding President Masoud Pezeshkian's interactions with Khamenei. One report claims a cleric stated Khamenei would accept Pezeshkian's resignation, which Pezeshkian's office denied. Another report alleged a brief, obscured meeting between Pezeshkian and Khamenei, contrasting with Pezeshkian's public description of a longer, cordial encounter. Experts suggest this dynamic reflects a power struggle within Iran's ruling system, where Khamenei's name is invoked to legitimize factions and consolidate power in the absence of clear leadership. Mojtaba Khamenei has not been publicly seen or heard since succeeding his father.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has denied reports that he threatened to resign multiple times during negotiations with the US over the Strait of Hormuz. These claims, made by Mohammad Bagher Kharazi, suggest Pezeshkian was frustrated by exclusion from decision-making and the supreme leader's perceived reluctance to engage. Pezeshkian stated he would officially announce any resignation and is committed to his role, asserting harmony with the military. The denial comes amidst US and European pressure on Oman for a temporary agreement that could grant Iran dominance over the vital shipping channel. Hardline factions, including the Assembly of Experts, have criticized any potential settlement with the US as "futile" and a "betrayal."

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened Iran with catastrophic military action, often declaring it Tehran's "last chance" to reach a deal, only to later dial back his threats and announce ceasefires or postponed strikes. These patterns have occurred multiple times since the US and Israel launched joint attacks on Iran in February 2026. Trump's pronouncements, which have often coincided with market volatility, have been followed by periods of de-escalation, with the US president citing progress in negotiations or requests from mediators. Iran, however, has consistently denied ongoing direct talks with the US, stating it is only communicating with Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz. The conflict, now in its 23rd week, remains unresolved with no clear end in sight.

US President Donald Trump stated that talks with Iran are underway, describing them as Tehran's "last chance" to secure a deal to end a five-month conflict. However, Iran has denied holding any talks with Washington. According to the article, Tehran claims it is instead speaking with Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz. The article does not specify the location of these alleged talks or provide further details on the nature of the potential deal.

Iran is in discussions with Oman to establish a temporary shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz to resume commercial traffic. This initiative is separate from any potential talks with the United States, according to Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson. The discussions with Oman, which have lasted seven to eight days, aim to create a single round-trip corridor as an alternative to the previous UN-overseen route. Iran claims full sovereignty over the strait and is seeking to manage its routes and services, potentially through a joint Omani-Iranian company. This move comes amidst ongoing tensions with the US, with Iran asserting that an agreement on a route would not resolve all issues, citing the US naval blockade of its ports.

President Trump announced that new negotiations with Iran were imminent, set to begin on Monday, after calling off a planned "massive attack." He stated the potential deal involved the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's denuclearization. However, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman stated they would not host delegations or be guests during that period, though indirect talks via intermediaries like Pakistan and Qatar were hinted at. Analysts suggest a deal on the Strait of Hormuz might be achievable, with Iran already in final stages of bilateral talks with Oman on the waterway's management. A lasting peace agreement on Iran's nuclear program and other issues is considered far more distant.

US President Donald Trump stated on Monday that Iran has its "last chance" to reach an agreement with Washington regarding the Strait of Hormuz and the ongoing conflict. Speaking from the White House, Trump indicated that negotiations are currently underway, a claim Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman denied, asserting no direct talks were happening. Trump suggested these discussions were initiated at Iran's request, with support from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. This comes after Trump had previously suspended plans for military strikes against Iran over the weekend.

President Trump has struggled to find common ground with Iran's leadership amidst ongoing Middle East tensions. Despite Trump's claims of impending negotiations and potential deals for opening the Strait of Hormuz and denuclearization, Iran has denied any peace talks are underway, stating they are negotiating with Oman for passage through the strait. Iran has demonstrated its ability to reignite conflict by launching ballistic missiles and maintaining control over the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global oil supply. This strategic unpredictability has strengthened Iran's negotiating position. The situation is time-sensitive for Trump, with a looming global energy crisis and upcoming midterm elections where public support for the war is low.

US President Donald Trump has accused Iran of being "duplicitous" after Tehran denied holding direct talks with the United States. Trump stated on his social media platform that Iran had initially sought negotiations to end a conflict but then claimed to only be dealing with Oman. He asserted that the US will maintain a naval blockade, described as a "Wall of Steel," of Iran's southern ports until a deal or "Total Surrender" is achieved. This comes after Trump had previously paused a threatened large-scale bombing campaign against Iran, opting to give diplomacy more time. Iran's Foreign Ministry confirmed it was pursuing diplomatic avenues but not currently engaged in direct negotiations with the US.

President Trump announced the US would delay new strikes on Iran, provided a deal to end the conflict is quickly reached. This decision followed intervention by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who reportedly urged de-escalation due to concerns about Iranian retaliation against Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries. Iran had threatened decisive retaliation against neighbors if attacked, and reports indicated Iranian drones hit Kuwait and two ships were attacked off Oman. Trump stated the delay is contingent on Iran opening the Strait of Hormuz and ending its nuclear program.

President Donald Trump announced he has canceled planned strikes against Iran, contingent on a rapid deal being reached. This decision, made in conjunction with Israel, comes amid media reports of potential intense strikes over the weekend. Trump stated on Truth Social that the proposed deal would involve the immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to Iran's nuclear threat. He indicated that Iran and other Middle Eastern countries had requested a delay to allow for negotiations. Trump also mentioned that the US was prepared for significant military action but decided to hold off after being asked to do so. He suggested that the outlines of an agreement had been agreed upon.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed concerns to President Donald Trump during a Saturday phone call regarding potential U.S. escalation of conflict with Iran. The discussion occurred as Trump considers new strikes on Iran. Saudi Arabia fears that U.S. attacks on Iranian infrastructure could lead to retaliatory strikes on Gulf energy facilities. The Crown Prince sought clarification on Trump's potential actions. This comes after Saudi Arabia joined the U.S. in striking militia sites in Iraq, while also advocating for negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. The White House confirmed the call but provided no details.

President Trump announced he would halt threatened strikes against Iran, stating a deal was near that would include the immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran dismissed this, calling Trump's comments "psychological operations." The strategically vital Strait of Hormuz remains under Iranian control, with ships only able to pass if permitted by Iran's armed forces. Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince spoke with Trump, emphasizing dialogue to reduce escalation. Previous attempts at an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz have failed, with Iran maintaining control over passage arrangements. The conflict has also impacted the Red Sea, though tensions were calmer on Sunday.

President Donald Trump announced he will halt new strikes against Iran, stating that Middle Eastern allies have reached parameters for a deal to end the five-month war. The emerging agreement, according to Trump, would include the complete opening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to Iran's nuclear threat. Israel has agreed to join the U.S. in pursuing this agreement. This announcement comes after Trump had suggested a resumption of heavy military strikes was imminent. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had previously expressed concerns to Trump about potential escalation and Iranian retaliation. The U.S. and Israel initiated the conflict on February 28th, aiming to dismantle Tehran's missile capabilities and prevent nuclear weapon acquisition.

Iran's Foreign Minister announced that negotiations with Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz are in their final stages, with a deal on a new maritime route expected soon. This development follows US President Donald Trump's statement that the US would hold off on new attacks against Iran if a rapid deal could be reached. Iran insists the vital waterway will not revert to its pre-war status, blaming the US for its closure. Trump stated that any deal would require the immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to Iran's nuclear threat. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly urged Trump to prioritize dialogue and de-escalation.

Palestinians in Gaza have expressed a glimmer of hope following President Trump's announcement that Hamas has agreed to disarm, potentially leading to an end to Israeli attacks and enabling rebuilding. However, this hope is tempered by the ongoing reality of Israeli airstrikes and a lack of significant progress on a broader ceasefire agreement. Many Gazans remain displaced in dire conditions, prioritizing basic needs like food and medicine over political developments. While a U.S.-backed plan includes Hamas disarmament, Israeli troop withdrawal, and humanitarian aid, past negotiations have stalled due to mutual accusations of violations. Palestinians are skeptical that either Hamas or Israel will fully adhere to the new road map, citing broken promises and a lack of trust. Israel has not publicly commented on the plan but anonymous officials suggest it may not align with their interests, with no indication of withdrawal from certain controlled territories.

U.S. President Donald Trump threatened further strikes on Iran, citing Iran's alleged violation of a truce and attacks on commercial ships and American soldiers, as the U.S. pushes to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Following these threats, Kuwait reported responding to Iranian drone attacks on vital facilities, and a tanker was struck in the Strait of Hormuz. In Gaza, Israel conducted heavy strikes after the militant group Hamas agreed to disarm, a move that remains a potential breakthrough for ending the war but faces significant obstacles. Elsewhere, Houthi rebels blockaded Saudi shipping, forcing vessels to reroute, and Israeli forces destroyed an underground tunnel network in southern Lebanon used by Hezbollah.

Palestinian group Hamas has agreed to hand over its weaponry in Gaza, a deal brokered by US President Donald Trump. However, the agreement also stipulates Israel's withdrawal from the enclave and the transfer of power to a Palestinian administration. This has met with strong opposition from many Israeli politicians and the public, who largely hold hardline views towards Palestinians in Gaza following the October 7th attack. Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir denounced the deal, and centrist politicians like Gadi Eisenkot believe it falls short of the war's objectives. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces political pressure as elections approach, with his decisions likely influenced by his coalition partners and the need to maintain support from right-wing voters and the US.

Donald Trump claimed a deal has been reached for Hamas to disarm and Israeli forces to withdraw from Gaza, though obstacles remain. Iran launched drone strikes targeting US bases in Kuwait, resulting in a fatality and significant damage to a Chinese firm's building, in retaliation for recent US attacks. Saudi Arabia announced a 14-nation maritime defense alliance to secure navigation around the Bab al-Mandab strait. Meanwhile, Jordan's air defenses intercepted missiles from Iran, and Egypt is analyzing drone fragments from a strike on one of its ports. Analysts anticipate large profits for major oil companies due to impeded petroleum shipments amid regional conflict.

Hamas has confirmed it will disarm as part of a U.S.-brokered deal to end the Gaza war, which also requires Israel to withdraw. However, Hamas states its heavy weapons disarmament is contingent on the creation of a Palestinian state, a condition Israel's government rejects. This deal, part of a ceasefire announced last October, has faced stalled progress due to ongoing Israeli strikes and Hamas accusations of violations. Meanwhile, Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed to have struck two oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, and Kuwait reported intercepting Iranian drones. Saudi Arabia also announced a 14-country defense alliance to enhance maritime security in the Red Sea region, amidst disruptions to global shipping caused by the Iran conflict.

The Gaza Board of Peace announced a new agreement for the complete disarmament of Hamas and other armed groups in Gaza, with staged Israeli withdrawal from the territory. US President Donald Trump stated the deal would lead to lasting peace and security, with Gaza eventually governed by a new Palestinian government and overseen by an International Stabilization Force. Hamas confirmed its participation is contingent on Israel fulfilling its withdrawal obligations. The agreement outlines a 14-day schedule for an inventory of Hamas weapons, to be managed by a Palestinian National Committee and overseen by an international verification commission and stabilization force. Israel has not publicly commented on the proposal, and experts remain skeptical due to past unfulfilled agreements and ongoing Israeli military actions.

US President Donald Trump announced a deal for Hamas to disarm in exchange for an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, claiming Israel is "very happy" with the arrangement. Hamas has confirmed its agreement to the first step of this plan, which involves surrendering weapons to a Palestinian committee. However, Israel has not yet formally agreed to the terms, with some officials expressing strong opposition. The agreement, brokered by mediators, includes the establishment of an International Board of Peace chaired by Trump and a Palestinian committee to oversee Gaza's administration. The process involves Hamas preparing an inventory of weapons, followed by oversight from an International Stabilization Force and a new Palestinian police force, with incremental Israeli withdrawal occurring concurrently. The timeline for these steps remains unclear and contingent on Israeli approval and changes in the security situation on the ground.

A new proposal suggests Hamas disarm in Gaza in exchange for Israel withdrawing from occupied territory. This plan faces significant obstacles due to the ongoing conflict, widespread destruction in Gaza, and deep distrust between the parties. For Palestinians, the situation is catastrophic, with widespread home destruction and high civilian casualties, leading some to believe Israel aims to force their displacement. Israelis, in turn, view Hamas as a persistent threat requiring complete disarmament following the October 7th attack. The plan's success is also contingent on political pressures in both Israel and the US, with upcoming elections influencing leaders' decisions. Hamas, facing internal and external pressures and significant losses, has reportedly agreed to disarm, though Israel has yet to comment.

A new agreement for Gaza, announced by President Trump, aims to end the Israel-Hamas war through Hamas disarmament, Israeli withdrawal, and the transition to a civilian governing body. The international Board of Peace, established by Trump, will oversee the implementation of this deal, which requires Hamas to surrender weapons and tunnels. This agreement follows months of difficult negotiations and aims to pave the way for reconstruction, estimated to cost $70 billion. Hamas has agreed to the disarmament, while Israel has not yet commented. The National Committee for the Administration of Gaza will manage the region post-Hamas control, including establishing a new police force. Challenges remain, including Israeli suspicion of certain board members and Palestinian concerns about representation.

Palestinians in Gaza have reacted to the latest ceasefire deal with a sentiment of "enough is enough," expressing little hope that it will bring an end to the ongoing war. The article highlights the weariness and skepticism prevalent among the population in Gaza regarding the prospects of lasting peace. This sentiment suggests a deep-seated concern that previous attempts at de-escalation have failed to achieve their intended outcomes. The focus is on the reaction of the people in Gaza to the news of the ceasefire, indicating their lack of optimism about its effectiveness in resolving the conflict.

Saudi Arabia is forming an international alliance to protect shipping in the Red Sea from attacks by Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen. The coalition aims to counter Houthi disruptions to vital shipping lanes, including the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, which has impacted global energy prices and supply lines. Dozens of countries have been invited to join, with Egypt, Djibouti, and Sudan reportedly agreeing to participate. The alliance, to be headquartered in Riyadh, is a response to Houthi actions, including a maritime blockade imposed on Saudi Arabia. The Red Sea is a critical global shipping route, carrying a significant portion of international traffic and oil exports.

Yemeni sources report that Saudi Arabia is preparing a significant military offensive against the Houthis in central Yemen, potentially involving sea and land attacks. This move is seen as an effort to counter the Houthis' disruption of Saudi oil exports through the Red Sea. Saudi forces have been observed withdrawing from eastern Yemen, which could signal preparations for a land offensive. Concurrently, Saudi Arabia is organizing a multinational naval coalition to protect shipping in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab strait, with several countries having issued statements of support. The Houthis, who control Yemen's capital and much of its Red Sea coast, claim to be implementing a blockade against Saudi ships, stating it will be lifted if Saudi Arabia ends its blockade on Yemen. Recent Houthi attacks have targeted oil transport sites within Saudi Arabia.

Jordan's air defenses intercepted five missiles launched from Iran on Thursday morning, according to Jordan's state-run Petra news agency. This occurred hours after the U.S. military reported completing a significant wave of strikes against Iran in retaliation for an earlier Iranian missile attack on a U.S. base in Jordan. No casualties were reported in Jordan from the missile interception. The U.S. Central Command stated their strikes targeted dozens of Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps sites, including command centers and missile facilities. Iran's state media reported casualties from strikes on Qeshm island. These events follow joint U.S.-Saudi strikes on Iran-backed militias in Iraq and separate drone strikes that caused fires on two natural gas vessels in Egypt.

Saudi Arabia and thirteen other nations have formed the Multinational Maritime Defense Alliance to enhance collective maritime defense cooperation and secure vital waterways. Announced on Thursday, the alliance aims to protect freedom of navigation, international trade, and energy supply routes through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, the Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden. This initiative comes amid escalating hostilities, particularly attacks by Iran-backed Houthi fighters on this strategic corridor. The alliance's activities will include intelligence sharing, operational planning, and joint exercises, with its nature described as purely defensive. The participating states view maritime security as a shared responsibility to confront transnational threats.

The US military conducted "heavy" strikes against Iran on Wednesday in retaliation for attempted Iranian ballistic missile attacks on American forces. Centcom stated these strikes targeted "dozens" of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) targets in response to Iran firing missiles at US bases in Jordan and ships in the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday. These actions follow recent US-Saudi strikes on Iranian proxies in Iraq and come after a period of relative calm during which talks for a diplomatic solution were reportedly underway, though Iran denied discussions were happening. All Iranian missiles fired on Tuesday were intercepted.

Regional attacks are escalating as Iran pushes back against the United States. Iran's IRGC claimed responsibility for strikes on a US base in Jordan, which the US president threatened to retaliate against. Iran also reported a missile strike in West Azerbaijan province, while Hezbollah targeted an Israeli military vehicle. The Houthis have attacked Saudi oil facilities, and the US and Saudi Arabia struck Iran-aligned forces in Iraq. Iran rejected an Omani proposal for joint oversight of the Strait of Hormuz, citing security concerns and accusing the US of reneging on commitments. This rejection, coupled with increased military actions, suggests a hardening of Iran's position and fears of further escalation.

The US military reported that Iran launched multiple ballistic missiles from Iran in an attempted surprise attack on US forces in the Middle East late on Tuesday. All Iranian missiles were successfully intercepted, and US forces remain vigilant. This attack occurred after a brief lull in fighting, which followed nearly two weeks of US strikes on Iran and Iranian strikes on US allies. Mediators were attempting to bring both sides back to negotiations for a ceasefire. The target of the missile attack was reportedly a US base in Jordan. This escalation comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Washington.

Saudi Arabia reported shooting down drones launched from Iraq for a second consecutive day, which it attributed to Iran-affiliated militias. Concurrently, Houthi rebels in Yemen claimed to have forced a Saudi oil tanker to change course as part of their declared blockade of the kingdom. These incidents occurred despite a recent lull in direct confrontations between the U.S. and Iran. The Saudi Defense Ministry stated the drones targeted petroleum facilities in the eastern region. Iraq's Prime Minister ordered an investigation into the Saudi claims, while Iraqi militias denied involvement. The Houthis also claimed to have targeted a Saudi oil tanker in the Red Sea, an incident that a UK maritime authority confirmed involved a tanker hearing explosions, though the vessel and crew were safe.

Jordan's air defenses intercepted five missiles launched from Iran early Wednesday, with the Jordanian military confirming they were destroyed. This occurred shortly after the U.S. military announced it had downed an Iranian missile barrage targeting American forces in the Middle East, ending a brief lull in hostilities. U.S. Central Command stated that all Iranian missiles aimed at U.S. forces were intercepted. In conjunction with Saudi Arabia, U.S. forces also struck sites in Iraq used by Iran-backed militias for launching attacks. The U.S. warned that further aggression against American troops or Saudi energy infrastructure would prompt additional action.

US and Saudi forces have launched attacks on Iran-aligned groups in Iraq. This action is in retaliation for what the US describes as "30 IRGC-directed" drone attacks over the past 30 days, which included strikes on Saudi Arabia's oil facilities. The US also accused Iran of firing multiple ballistic missiles in an attempted surprise attack on its forces at a base in Jordan. These developments occur as Saudi Arabia reports intercepting drones and Iran warns of taking "any action" to maintain its control of the Strait of Hormuz.

Saudi Arabia reported shooting down drones for a second consecutive day, stating they were launched from Iraq by Iran-affiliated militias and targeted petroleum facilities in the eastern region. Concurrently, Houthi rebels in Yemen claimed to have compelled a Saudi oil tanker to alter its course as part of their blockade against the kingdom. These incidents highlight ongoing tensions, occurring despite a recent lull in attacks between the United States and Iran following weeks of escalation in the Strait of Hormuz. The Saudi Defence Ministry confirmed the interception and destruction of the drones.

Saudi Arabia faces a dilemma regarding its involvement in the escalating regional conflict between the US and Iran. While the US and Saudi Arabia recently conducted strikes against Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces, Saudi Arabia is attempting to avoid a full-scale war. This cautious approach is driven by Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman's "Vision 2030" initiative, which aims to diversify the Saudi economy away from oil, attract foreign investment, and develop domestic industries. These ambitious economic goals, including the construction of vulnerable infrastructure like data centers, are jeopardized by regional instability. Iran's ongoing drone and missile attacks on countries like Jordan, Kuwait, and Bahrain, alongside targeting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, contribute to the widening conflict, further complicating Saudi Arabia's strategic choices.