Iran distances itself from Houthis as Saudi Arabia builds new alliance

Key Points:

• Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian distanced Tehran from Yemen’s Houthis, stating the group is responsible for its own actions amid escalating conflict with Saudi Arabia.
• Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan are preparing a joint military response under a defense pact after Saudi intercepted six ballistic missiles fired by the Houthis.
• Iran proposed a detailed seven-day plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, contingent on the U.S. lifting port blockades, releasing frozen funds, and waiving oil sanctions, with the strait reopening on the final day.
• Despite recent indirect talks in New York, U.S.-Iran diplomacy remains stalled, with Washington expanding sanctions and Iran warning of potential military escalation due to ongoing U.S. pressure.
• Approximately 60 commercial vessels transited the Strait of Hormuz recently, highlighting the strategic importance of the route amid tensions disrupting global oil and gas shipments.