Iran sets terms for US talks as Houthis step up attacks on Saudi Arabia

Iran has outlined conditions for re-establishing dialogue with the United States as regional conflicts escalate, as Saudi forces successfully intercepted a Houthi ballistic missile en route to Riyadh. The Yemeni group has also asserted responsibility for attacks on Saudi oil infrastructure. Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary, Mohsen Rezaei, disclosed Tehran's seven demands to Al Jazeera, including an end to warfare in all areas, the release of frozen Iranian assets, and the removal of a U.S. naval blockade on Iranian ports.

Rezaei emphasized that these conditions must be met before negotiations can begin, and threatened further military action if the U.S. launches another strike. He reiterated Iran's commitment to its nuclear doctrine but expressed a potential reconsideration of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, contingent upon U.S. actions. The diplomatic efforts are underway amid intensified fighting between Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Houthi rebels.

A Saudi-led coalition reported intercepting a ballistic missile launched at Riyadh and thwarting assaults on Bish, Taif, Farasan, and Yanbu. The Houthis claimed targeting sensitive Saudi locations with ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones, including Saudi Aramco facilities in Yanbu. The Riyadh attack marked the first reported Houthi strike on the Saudi capital since hostilities began in July.

The group has targeted cities, military bases, and energy facilities after imposing a naval blockade against Saudi shipping, increasing concerns over regional shipping and energy infrastructure. The U.S. State Department cautioned Americans in nine Middle Eastern nations to exercise vigilance, warning that Saudi-Houthi hostilities could rapidly escalate.