Houthis hit Saudi Arabia, Iran makes demands in Strait of Hormuz talks and Dubai foils gold smuggling plot

In the ongoing conflict, Houthi rebels launched attacks in southern Saudi Arabia, resulting in the injury of 11 civilians and the death of several government troops in Yemen. Saudi Arabia is taking steps to enhance security cooperation with regional allies in response to these incidents.

Iran has been seeking sanctions relief in exchange for toll-free shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Pakistan hopes that progress on maritime routes could lead to renewed US-Iran peace talks. Meanwhile, a deadly bus explosion occurred near Damascus.

Dubai Customs successfully thwarted a sophisticated attempt to smuggle 24-carat gold through the city's international airport. The UAE has introduced new excise tax rules for vape liquids, which will come into effect next month.

The Israeli government is investigating former Prime Minister Rafi Baron, while there are tensions between Israel and Turkey over Syria. Trump has increased pressure on Iran, and Israel opened an investigation into former Tourism Minister Hind Rajab. Dubai has suspended trade with Iran, and US-Iran talks have stalled. Israel also carried out strikes in Syria.