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

Iran has set specific conditions for resuming discussions with the United States amid escalating regional conflicts, as Saudi forces intercepted a Houthi ballistic missile headed towards Riyadh. Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, informed Al Jazeera that Tehran presented its demands to Washington through Qatari intermediaries and is awaiting a response from the U.S. before negotiations can proceed.

Rezaei outlined seven demands, including an end to hostilities, the release of frozen Iranian assets, and the removal of the U.S. naval blockade on Iranian ports. He stated that Washington must adhere to these conditions before negotiations commence. Rezaei also threatened Iran would be ready for additional military action and claimed U.S. bases could be subjected to more intense strikes if the U.S. launches another attack.

Iran has maintained its nuclear doctrine but is contemplating withdrawing from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty based on U.S. actions. The diplomatic efforts coincide with intensified hostilities between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthis. A Saudi-led coalition reported that an intercepted ballistic missile launched towards Riyadh thwarted assaults against Bish, Taif, Farasan, and Yanbu.

However, the Houthis asserted attacks on sensitive targets across Saudi Arabia using various means, including ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones. They also claimed targeting Saudi Aramco facilities in Yanbu, the Red Sea port city. The Riyadh attack represented the first Houthi strike on the Saudi capital since hostilities commenced in July.

The group has been targeting cities, military installations, and energy infrastructure since declaring a naval embargo on Saudi shipments. The intensification of the conflict has raised concerns over regional shipping and energy infrastructure. The U.S. State Department cautioned Americans in nine Middle Eastern nations to exercise caution, warning that Saudi-Houthi hostilities could rapidly escalate.