Drones attack Iran's neighbours as Tehran appears to test Trump's latest pause

Key Points:

• Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Iraq reported multiple drone attacks on Monday, with Saudi Arabia attributing the attacks to Iran-backed militias launching drones from Iraq targeting petroleum facilities and reserving the right to respond.
• The drone attacks occurred two days after the U.S. abruptly suspended a two-week airstrike campaign against Iran, a decision influenced by military advice that the bombing had reached its limits, resulting in a sharp drop in oil prices.
• Iran stated it would pause its attacks as long as the U.S. ceasefire continued but denied seeking renewed peace talks, emphasizing control over the Strait of Hormuz and rejecting claims of requesting negotiations.
• Iranian state media reported turning back six ships attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz without permission, underscoring Tehran's assertion of control over the strategic waterway amid ongoing tensions with the U.S.
• Despite a June framework agreement for talks by the end of August, disputes remain over navigation rights in the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran aiming to formalize control in coordination with Oman, which is engaged in ongoing discussions with Tehran.