In talks with Turkey, Egypt holds firm on Mediterranean sovereignty

Saudi Arabia's armed forces successfully intercepted a Houthi missile launched towards Riyadh on Saturday, amid growing concerns of an expanded Middle Eastern conflict. The Saudi-led coalition activated its air defense systems after receiving urgent alerts in several key locations, including Riyadh, Najran, and Wadi al-Dawasir. Following the missile strike, the coalition announced the danger had ceased.

In addition to the missile interception, Saudi forces reported downing a drone in the Eastern Province, while reports of fresh air strikes in Yemen's Saada governorate emerged from Houthi-affiliated media sources. These events followed U.S. President Donald Trump's declaration that Washington might launch another military operation against Iran, referencing Operation Epic Fury, a campaign that began in February.

U.S. Ambassador to Turkey, Tom Barrack, went further, suggesting potential strikes could commence as soon as this weekend, though Trump later denied any knowledge of such plans.

The escalating tensions have sent shockwaves through global energy markets. Brent crude oil prices surged to $117.30 per barrel on Friday, while West Texas Intermediate climbed to $103 per barrel, driven by fears of potential supply disruptions. October has emerged as the deadliest month for commercial shipping security in the Strait of Hormuz, with at least 28 vessel strikes confirmed by Washington Institute data reported by Reuters.

The institute has recorded 113 attacks since February, while the International Maritime Organization reported 120 incidents.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz, indicated that Washington could sustain its naval blockade of Iran for the foreseeable future. Diplomatic efforts persist despite the heightened military rhetoric. International Atomic Energy Agency chief, Rafael Grossi, stated that the agency is technically ready to resume nuclear verification in Iran, emphasizing the necessity of a negotiated agreement.

Iran's deputy UN envoy maintained that Tehran has not renounced its nuclear safeguards obligations, citing security concerns over the return of inspectors. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is slated to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow next week during a gas exporters' summit.

Meanwhile, Israel has implemented stringent measures across the occupied West Bank following a shooting that claimed the lives of two Israeli soldiers near Hebron. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened a wide-ranging military operation, while Israeli forces have conducted raids and demolitions in response to the incident.