Iran changed the rules in Hormuz. The Gulf is changing the rules for Iran

Iran's Supreme National Security Council, through its secretary Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, has outlined six new conditions for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. These demands, presented on Saturday, extend beyond previous agreements and require the United States to cease threats and insults, end attacks on Iran and its allies, withdraw naval and air forces from around Iran, provide compensation for past damages, lift sanctions, and unconditionally release frozen assets. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) corroborated these conditions, stating that the reopening is contingent on Washington accepting them and is separate from negotiations with Oman. The IRGC spokesperson emphasized that the Strait will reopen once the US accepts Iran's terms.

Iran announced that a deal with Oman to establish new shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz is in its final stages. However, Iran reiterated that the waterway will only reopen after the United States meets unspecified conditions. A US official previously indicated that an agreement was close and could lead to the reopening of the strait, which previously handled a significant portion of global oil and LNG shipments before being blocked by Iran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that the agreement would outline new lanes for when the strait reopens, contingent on US actions. He also noted that Iran is not directly negotiating with the US, but messages are being exchanged through intermediaries.

Israel has rejected a 15-point plan proposed by former US President Donald Trump concerning Gaza. Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that the Israeli military will not withdraw from Gaza until Hamas is "genuinely" disarmed. This decision comes amidst ongoing discussions regarding a new shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, with Oman reporting positive talks with Iran, though a breakthrough is not yet clear. Separately, the Pentagon released a fifth batch of documents related to Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP). An Indian-flagged ship was sunk off the coast of Yemen, with all 14 crew members safely rescued. Qatar indicated that US-Iran mediation efforts are continuing, but denied plans for direct talks.

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis announced on Sunday they attacked Saudi Aramco's Jazan refinery. This attack occurred two days after Saudi Arabia signed a defense pact with Turkey and Pakistan, aimed at strengthening collective deterrence against regional instability. The Houthis claimed to have used a drone to target the refinery, which processes 400,000 barrels of crude oil daily in southwestern Saudi Arabia. The Saudi energy ministry confirmed a fire broke out at the refinery but was extinguished with no injuries, stating authorities were addressing the incident without specifying a cause. The Houthis had previously declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea.

Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for a drone attack on a Saudi oil refinery in Jazan early Sunday. This incident follows Saudi Arabia signing a defense pact with Turkey and Pakistan amid regional instability. The attack also occurred as Iran issued demands for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, linking it to US actions and compensation. The United Arab Emirates also reported its ship was targeted by an Iranian missile. Saudi Arabia's energy ministry confirmed a fire at the refinery, which was extinguished with no injuries. The Houthis stated they used a drone and have previously targeted Saudi oil infrastructure.

Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for a drone attack on an Aramco oil facility in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, stating it was retaliation for Saudi drone incursions. Saudi Arabia's Energy Ministry confirmed a fire at the refinery, which was extinguished without casualties. Meanwhile, Iran has presented new demands for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, stating it will not open until the U.S. "corrects its behavior," including ending threats and lifting sanctions. The Pentagon is urging the U.S. defense industry to accelerate weapons production to replenish depleted stockpiles. Separately, Iran and Oman are reportedly nearing a temporary deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, allowing ships to pass through routes near both countries without fees.

Iran is not immediately threatened by a new trilateral defense pact between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkiye, according to analysts. The agreement, signed in Mecca, states that an attack on one signatory is an attack on all. Iranian officials are primarily focusing on the pact as a sign of a diminishing US security role in the region, viewing it as a step towards a new regional order based on cooperation among states. While some analysts believe the pact could eventually lead to coordinated pressure on Iran, particularly concerning regional conflicts, others see it as a symbolic development and a counterweight to the Abraham Accords. Iran's Foreign Minister alluded to self-reliance and brotherhood without directly mentioning the pact.

Iran has issued stringent demands for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, stating it will not open until the United States "corrects its behavior," which includes ending threats, lifting sanctions, and compensating for war damages. These demands come as the United Arab Emirates reported one of its ships was targeted by an Iranian missile in the strait. Negotiations for a deal to open the waterway remain stalled, despite mediation efforts by Oman suggesting positive discussions. Iran claims to be close to an agreement on navigation routes but insists on these broader conditions, blaming the US for violating an interim deal. The attacks on shipping in the strategically vital strait continue, with Adnoc reporting multiple incidents.

The United Arab Emirates stated that Iran targeted an ADNOC tanker in the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday. The UAE foreign ministry condemned the incident as a "hostile Iranian attack" that did not result in casualties. This event occurs as Iran has imposed an effective blockade on the strait and is reportedly in final stages of talks with Oman regarding its future management. ADNOC reported that 15 of its vessels have been attacked in Hormuz since the start of the war, with three attacked this week alone. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital shipping lane, previously carrying about a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas.

Yemen's military launched attacks on Houthi rebels in response to recent strikes, marking a significant escalation since a 2022 truce, with the UN warning of increased conflict risk. In Turkey, a parliamentary committee approved a draft law aimed at advancing peace with Kurdish militants, including a conditional pardon-like mechanism for former fighters, contingent on the Kurdistan Workers' Party disarming and disbanding. The bill is expected to be debated in the general assembly next week.

Oman has reported positive discussions with Iran regarding an agreement for a secure shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz. Both nations indicated progress on Saturday, though a definitive timeline for a deal remains uncertain. Iran's Foreign Minister stated that while talks are in their final stages, the reopening of the strait is contingent on other conditions, including compensation from the United States for alleged violations of a previous agreement. This maritime route, crucial for global energy flow, has faced effective blockades since February following attacks by the US and Israel. The ongoing talks, involving Iran and Oman, aim to establish a jointly managed route to facilitate the resumption of shipping traffic. Oman's foreign ministry has cautioned against any attacks on shipping that could impede these efforts.

Iran and Oman have finalized coordinates for vessel routes through the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran's authorities deliberating the arrangement. However, Iran's Foreign Minister stated that a full reopening of the strait depends on the United States adhering to commitments from a June memorandum of understanding, which Iran claims were violated. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) spokesperson indicated that the reopening has its own mechanism and requires the US to accept conditions set by Iran, viewing the strait as a source of power. Parliament's national security commission confirmed the framework of an arrangement with Oman has been agreed upon.

Analysts suggest President Trump's approach to the Iran conflict has become a repetitive cycle of threats and withdrawals, leading to ridicule. Over five months, Trump has repeatedly threatened military action against Iran, only to back down, often citing potential negotiations or appeals from allies. This pattern, described as "Groundhog Day," has been observed multiple times, including a recent instance where a "massive" attack was called off. Critics argue Trump's messaging lacks strategy and demonstrates ignorance of Iran's leadership, potentially impacting upcoming elections. The article highlights the resilience of Iran's regime, attributing it to a deep understanding of its internal dynamics and leadership.

President Trump stated that the war with Iran is nearing its end and that petrol prices will drop once it concludes, claiming to be involved in negotiations. However, Iran denies direct talks with the US, stating they are only speaking with Oman regarding control of the Strait of Hormuz. Reports suggest Iran is considering a bill to bar US and Israeli vessels from the strait. Experts express skepticism about the likelihood of a swift end to the conflict, citing a pattern of Trump's threats followed by cancellations and a lack of trust in US commitments from Iran. While Iran and Oman have agreed on shipping route coordinates, resolving the Strait of Hormuz issue is seen as separate from broader US-Iran war talks.

Tensions remain high around the Strait of Hormuz, with renewed explosions reported near Qeshm Island, which Iran's state media attributes to operations against hostile targets. Concurrently, Iran's parliament is considering a bill to restrict passage for hostile nations like the US and Israel, imposing fines for violations. Iran's chief negotiator has criticized the US for alternating between threats and diplomatic overtures. The Iranian Intelligence Ministry also announced the arrest of 21 individuals accused of collaborating with Israel's Mossad. Despite these developments, Iran and Oman are reportedly in the final stages of a temporary agreement to facilitate commercial vessel passage through the Strait, while the US naval blockade on Iran's southern ports continues.

Iran's Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, has accused US President Donald Trump of engaging in "theater diplomacy on loop." Ghalibaf stated this in response to Trump's repeated announcements of planned attacks on Iran, which were subsequently called off. Trump had claimed that a deal was close to being reached, promising the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to Iran's nuclear threat. Ghalibaf dismissed these claims, characterizing the US approach as a failed pressure tactic involving bullying, broken promises, and fake news. He urged the US to acknowledge facts and fulfill its commitments. The article also mentions Iran's ongoing talks with Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting a deal is nearing finalization.

Iran is reportedly seeking to bar US and Israeli ships from the Strait of Hormuz and demand compensation from "hostile countries" for its use, as part of a proposed deal with Oman to manage the waterway. This agreement is seen as crucial for reopening Hormuz and resuming energy flows, which have been impacted since alleged attacks by the US and Israel on Iran in February. The proposed deal, currently under review in Iran's parliament, also includes a ban on Israeli-related cargo and a fee structure for services. This development has led to concerns from former US officials about escalating demands. Separately, Iranian naval forces reportedly struck "hostile targets" near the Strait of Hormuz, contributing to a rise in oil prices and a fall in stocks.

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.

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.

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.

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 Donald Trump announced that new negotiations with Iran will commence on Monday, following his decision to halt planned strikes against the country. Trump stated that Iran and Gulf allies, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, urged him to delay the military action to allow diplomacy a chance. He indicated that these allies believed a deal was possible, specifically regarding the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear program. Trump revealed that a significant attack was prepared but was called off, and that talks would begin Monday afternoon, though details on the venue and participants were not provided. The announcement came after diplomatic discussions involving Iranian and Saudi foreign ministers, with Pakistan's army commander also participating.

President Trump announced that new talks with Iran would occur on Monday, stating he had called off an imminent US attack as part of a push for an agreement. He claimed Iran and other Middle Eastern countries requested time to finalize a deal for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to Iran's nuclear threat. Conversely, Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson indicated a deal with Oman was close regarding a new shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, and that Iran had no plans for any talks. The article also briefly mentions a significant increase in US measles cases and other unrelated news.

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 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.

President Donald Trump announced he has canceled a planned large-scale military strike on Iran, stating that "perimeters of a deal" have been agreed upon. This decision, made on his Truth Social platform late Saturday, followed reports that Washington and Israel were preparing to strike Iran's energy infrastructure. Trump claimed the cancellation was in response to requests from Iran and other Middle Eastern countries to delay an attack, contingent on a swift conclusion to the deal. He indicated the agreement would lead to the immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz and end Iran's nuclear threat. Earlier, Iran had warned of a proportionate response to any US or Israeli attack. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly urged Trump to cancel the strikes and return to negotiations.

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.

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.

US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday evening via social media that Middle Eastern allies have outlined parameters for a deal to end the Iran war. Consequently, he has agreed to postpone further strikes in the ongoing conflict. Trump stated the proposed deal would involve the immediate and complete opening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to Iran's nuclear threat. He indicated that Israel has agreed to collaborate with the US on this agreement. Trump emphasized that this decision was made for the benefit of the world and the prosperity of Iran, contingent on the ability to finalize a deal. Iran had not publicly responded to Trump's announcement at the time of the report.

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.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced a pause on planned attacks against Iran, stating that the "perimeters of a deal has been agreed to" with Iran and other Middle Eastern countries. Trump indicated that this deal would require Iran to immediately and completely open the Strait of Hormuz and cease its nuclear program. However, Iran has denied Trump's claim that Tehran requested the U.S. to hold off on strikes, calling it a "new lie" and asserting their military readiness. The Strait of Hormuz remains closed, disrupting global energy supplies. Reports suggest Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman urged Trump to de-escalate. The U.S. is also reportedly facing concerns about depleting munitions, particularly Patriot anti-missile interceptors.

The US military launched strikes on Iranian targets in response to Iran's attack on American forces in Jordan. These strikes, which hit Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corp facilities including command centers and missile sites, occurred after a period of reduced violence and followed President Trump's vow to retaliate forcefully. The US also partnered with Saudi Arabia to strike Iran-backed militias in Iraq, resulting in casualties. Additionally, drone strikes hit natural gas vessels at an Egyptian port, with responsibility unclear. These escalations, occurring on multiple fronts, raise concerns about a widening regional conflict and the difficulty of de-escalating the ongoing crisis.

The United States resumed airstrikes inside Iran Wednesday night in retaliation for Tehran's attempted ballistic-missile attack on American forces in the Middle East. U.S. Central Command stated the strikes were a response to Iran's actions, which shattered a brief diplomatic pause initiated by President Donald Trump. An Iran expert warned that the regime is becoming more risk-tolerant and dangerous, despite potentially weakened military capabilities. Iran's missile launch, which was intercepted without reported casualties, followed a deadlier attack on U.S. forces in Jordan that killed two service members. The renewed conflict also impacts negotiations over the Strait of Hormuz and involves Saudi Arabia in joint strikes against Iran-backed groups in Iraq.

Iraq's Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has canceled his first official trip to Saudi Arabia in protest of joint Saudi-US airstrikes on Iran-backed Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) bases across seven Iraqi provinces. The Iraqi National Security Council condemned the attacks, which killed at least 20 PMF members and four Iranian advisors, as a "flagrant violation of Iraq’s sovereignty." Saudi Arabia and US Central Command stated the strikes targeted groups responsible for attacks on American troops and Saudi energy infrastructure, citing recent drone attacks launched from Iraqi territory. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq denied involvement in the Saudi attacks, calling the claims fabrications.

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.

Recent U.S. and Saudi Arabian airstrikes in Iraq targeting Iran-allied Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) have intensified Iraq's difficult balancing act between Washington and Tehran. These strikes, a response to Saudi accusations of drone attacks by Iraqi militias on oil facilities, hit bases of the PMF, a group officially part of Iraq's security forces but often operating autonomously and with close ties to Iran. The PMF has also attacked U.S. forces in Iraq. Iraq's government has set a September deadline for non-state armed groups to disarm, but powerful factions close to Iran have refused. Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi faces pressure from the U.S. to control the PMF, but confronting them could lead to internal unrest. The PMF reported casualties from the strikes, and a planned visit by al-Zaidi to Saudi Arabia was postponed.

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.

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.

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.