Iran-Saudi Tensions Escalate as Iraq Restricts Flights

The conflict between Iran and Saudi Arabia has escalated, with Iraq restricting Iranian flights in line with US pressure. The Houthis have launched strikes on the Saudi-backed government in Yemen and repeatedly fired into Saudi Arabia, disrupting oil flows from the world's largest energy exporter.

Mohammad Mokhber, an adviser to Iran's supreme leader, accused regional countries of 'alignment with America' for blocking flights. He warned that if Iran is not allowed to fly or receive airport services, other countries in the region will also be restricted.

The US and its allies have imposed sanctions on Iranian companies, further isolating the country economically. Oil exports from Saudi Arabia have been squeezed by Iran and its allies, who have disrupted ship traffic at the mouth of the Red Sea and limited tanker traffic at the Strait of Hormuz.