Iran Update Special Report, July 25, 2026

Key Points:

• The Saudi-led coalition conducted airstrikes on July 24-25 targeting Houthi positions in Yemen, aiming to degrade their ability to threaten Saudi shipping and infrastructure, though there is dispute over whether Hudaydah Port was struck.
• In retaliation, the Houthis launched missile and drone attacks on Saudi oil infrastructure and vessels in Yanbu and Jizan on July 24, signaling intent to maintain and potentially escalate their blockade of Saudi ports.
• The Houthis' attacks on Red Sea ports and energy infrastructure increase pressure on Saudi Arabia, which relies heavily on Yanbu for oil exports amid broader regional tensions involving Iran.
• The United States paused its series of nightly strikes in Iran for the first time since July 12, following high-level discussions and diplomatic engagement involving Oman, while President Trump indicated ongoing talks with Iran.
• Iran has moderated its attacks on US bases in the region, possibly in response to the US pause in strikes, as Tehran seeks to exert pressure on the US and its allies to end the air campaign under terms favorable to Iran.