Bluster and backdown have turned Iran war into Trump’s own Groundhog Day

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.

President Donald Trump stated that a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could be reached as early as Wednesday or Thursday, following progress in talks between Iran and Oman. Regional officials suggest an agreement would involve ships entering the Persian Gulf via an Iranian-controlled route and exiting through an Omani-controlled route, with service fees for security and environmental preservation. While the U.S. has previously opposed Iranian control over the strait, Trump reiterated his opposition to tolls. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed progress but noted the talks are not finalized. The potential reopening of the strait comes amid efforts by Arab countries, including Qatar, to broker an end to the ongoing war, which has impacted oil prices and global shipping.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) urged US President Donald Trump to prioritize dialogue and de-escalation in a phone call, hours before Trump announced he was halting planned strikes against Iran. MBS emphasized the need for diplomatic solutions to preserve Gulf security and prevent a wider conflict with regional and international repercussions. Trump's decision to hold off on further attacks came after he had previously threatened Iran with unprecedented force. He stated that the reversal was due to requests from Iran and other Middle Eastern governments, and that the outlines of a deal to end the conflict had been agreed upon. This deal, according to Trump, would involve reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ending Iran's nuclear threat.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced it struck two oil tankers attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz under US aerial escort. This incident occurred as President Trump convened his cabinet to discuss the ongoing conflict and rising energy prices, which are impacting upcoming midterm elections. The strait has been largely closed to traffic for two weeks, contributing to soaring energy costs. Fighting has spread across the Middle East, with Kuwait reporting downing Iranian drones and Israel conducting strikes in Lebanon. The prolonged conflict, which Trump had predicted would be short, is facing waning public and congressional support in the US, while energy companies report record profits.

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.

A deal has been announced for Hamas to disarm in stages in exchange for an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, following nearly three years of conflict. The agreement, confirmed by the US and other mediators, was heralded by President Trump as a historic step towards lasting peace. However, concerns about implementation are widespread due to past failures and deep mistrust between the parties. Hamas insists disarmament is contingent on Israel ending hostilities and withdrawing forces, while some Israeli officials, like National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, have rejected the draft. Palestinian Islamic Jihad also expressed reservations about the agreement. The technocratic National Committee for the Administration of Gaza welcomed the roadmap.

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.

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.

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.

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.

US President Donald Trump has vowed a significant escalation against Iran following recent Iranian attacks on US military sites in the Middle East. Trump stated in an interview that Iran would face a "beating" and that the US would be "hitting them hard." These remarks come after Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed responsibility for targeting a US airbase and CENTCOM center in Jordan, warning of further actions if threats against the Islamic Republic continue. CENTCOM confirmed an attempted attack but stated all missiles were intercepted and US forces remain vigilant. The attacks occur after three US soldiers were killed at a Jordan base on July 17, and shortly after Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who advocates for a more aggressive stance against Iran.

President Trump's decision to pause bombing campaigns against Iran suggests that US military power alone is insufficient to achieve its objectives. Despite significant damage and casualties in Iran, Tehran has not been forced to capitulate, demonstrating an ability to withstand military pressure. Iran's strategy of maintaining missile and drone capabilities to threaten shipping in the Strait of Hormuz has created leverage, forcing the US to consider the economic consequences of prolonged conflict. The US has depleted key munitions, raising questions about its ability to sustain operations and defend its bases. While Iran may have short-term advantages, the long-term economic strain of sanctions makes its current situation unsustainable without a resolution.

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.

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.