Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis launched a missile strike on Israel for the first time since the war began. The group said it fired a barrage of ballistic missiles “targeting sensitive Israeli military sites,” following Israel’s interception of a missile from Yemen. The move by the Houthis raises the prospect of an expanded regional war, according to analysts reporting from the Middle East.
At least 12 American soldiers were injured in an Iranian missile strike on Saudi Arabia’s Prince Sultan Airbase, US media reports indicate. Several Gulf nations have also reported fresh strikes and missile interceptions amid escalating hostilities. Missile strikes were launched near Tehran overnight, as Iran’s foreign minister confirmed Israel had targeted Iranian nuclear sites on Friday.
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff said Washington is hopeful of holding meetings with Iran “this week” to de-escalate tensions, while Pakistan continues efforts as a regional peace facilitator. Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed that Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt’s foreign ministers will meet in Islamabad from 29-30 March for “in-depth discussions,” including efforts to de-escalate tensions. Pakistan has also offered to host talks between the US and Iran, although there is no confirmation yet on whether these will take place. Earlier this week, Dar noted that “indirect talks” were ongoing through “messages being relayed by Pakistan,” and Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the country “stands ready” to host negotiations.
Meanwhile, Iran has been experiencing a month-long internet blackout amid the ongoing conflict, according to internet monitoring group NetBlocks. The blackout, now in its fourth week, is described as “violating Iranians’ right to communicate and stay informed.” Authorities maintain a two-tiered system that allows regime members access to the internet, while most citizens are limited to a domestic “National Information Network.” This follows a similar internet shutdown in January during nationwide protests.
Erizia Rubyjeana
