Iraq

Regional tensions soar as Iraq confirms a drone strike on a critical Saudi oil pipeline originated from its territory, prompting border closures and accusations.

Saudi Arabia temporarily closed its East-West oil pipeline following drone attacks from Iraq, while Houthi rebels seized a strategic island in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Iran's ballistic missile attacks on U.S. forces triggered a joint U.S.-Saudi military retaliation against Iran-backed militias in Iraq, escalating the regional conflict.