Regional powers engage in Tehran peace talks while Houthi attacks persist and Jordan strikes Syria

Senior officials from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, signatories of the Mecca mutual defense pact, met with Iranian leadership in Tehran for peace talks aimed at de-escalating regional tensions. This diplomatic push comes as Yemen's Houthis continue missile attacks on Saudi Arabia, with Riyadh reporting interceptions and damage, and Jordan conducting airstrikes in southern Syria against militant hideouts linked to a deadly church attack. The UN Secretary-General emphasized the essential need to stop escalation in the Middle East. Regional powers are intensifying efforts to prevent a wider war with Iran, with some also preparing for potential military action if diplomacy fails.