Houthis Attack Red Sea Port and Saudi Facility
The Houthis, a group backed by Iran, launched an attack on Mokha, a vital port located on the Red Sea. The assault led to the death of at least seven people, including four troops and three civilians, and injured 15 others. According to Fayed al-Noman, assistant undersecretary of the information ministry, the attacks involved missiles and drones, causing severe damage to the port’s buildings, pier, and stored goods.
Mokha plays a crucial role for Yemen’s internationally recognized government. It has been updated to handle shipments that bypass Houthi-controlled ports. The Houthis claimed responsibility for these attacks, citing the use of ballistic missiles and drones targeting military and storage locations in the area.
Additionally, the Houthis targeted an Aramco refinery in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. Yahya Saree, a Houthi military spokesperson, stated the attack was in retaliation to Saudi drones breaching Yemen’s airspace. The Saudi Energy Ministry confirmed a fire at the facility but reported no casualties, with the fire extinguished quickly.
The ongoing series of attacks by the Houthis risks reigniting Yemen’s civil war, despite a 2022 truce which had stopped major conflict.
Potential Iran-Oman Deal on the Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz, a key passage for global oil and natural gas supplies, might see new agreements between Iran and Oman. A temporary arrangement is in the works that would allow ships to pass without tolls or fees during negotiations concerning Iran’s nuclear program. This temporary pact is set to be announced by Iran, Oman, the U.S., and the International Maritime Organization.
The deal, if concluded, aims to renew a previous understanding between the U.S. and Iran, opening a 60-day window for negotiations. However, terms could change before finalization.
Pentagon Boosts Weapons Production
The Pentagon is pushing to accelerate the production of munitions due to diminishing stockpiles. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell emphasized the importance of providing weapons at a quicker pace due to current conflicts’ demands. This effort is part of a larger modernization process that predates the recent conflicts.
Iran’s Stance on Strait of Hormuz and U.S. Negotiations
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that talks on new maritime routes through the Strait are nearing completion. However, reopening the Strait involves meeting various conditions. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council demands the U.S. alter its actions, cease threats to Iran, end the regional war with Iran’s allies, lift naval blockades, and withdraw its military.
The U.S. Central Command reported some results from the blockade, including redirecting and disabling vessels. The communications between Iran and the U.S. continue through intermediaries but don’t constitute formal negotiations, according to Araghchi.
Iranian Media Releases Video of Khamenei
The Mehr news agency in Iran released undated footage of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, with its authenticity not independently verified. Khamenei reportedly sustained injuries at the start of the U.S.-Iran war and hasn’t been seen in public, raising curiosity about the video’s timing.
Netanyahu’s Conditions on Gaza
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel will not withdraw from Gaza until Hamas fully disarms. In a cabinet meeting, he mentioned ongoing discussions with the U.S. regarding Gaza, acknowledging differences and agreements on their proposed solutions.
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