Houthi Attacks Spark Fears of Mideast Instability Amid Ongoing Negotiations

The Houthi rebels in Yemen, backed by Iran, have claimed responsibility for attacks on Saudi Arabia's Aramco refinery and a government-held port on the Red Sea coast of Yemen. The attack on Mokha port killed at least seven people and injured 15 civilians, according to the National Resistance Forces.

The Houthis fired missiles and drones at the port, severely damaging buildings and piers, as well as commercial goods and food supplies. They also targeted an Aramco refinery in Jazan with a drone, causing a fire but no casualties.

Meanwhile, a potential deal between Iran and Oman to manage the Strait of Hormuz is in its final stages. The agreement would reopen the strait, which is crucial for global oil supplies, without fees or tolls during an interim period.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a deal announced by President Trump for Gaza, stating that Israel's military will not withdraw until Hamas is disarmed. The Pentagon is also pressing the US defense industry to accelerate production of weapons due to concerns about shortages.