White House asks Pentagon for options on Iran strikes before midterms
The Atlantic reported on Wednesday, citing U.S. officials, that the White House has asked the Defense Department to prepare options for strikes on Iranian targets that could be carried out before the midterm elections. According to Al Jazeera's account of the report, the administration aims to lower fuel prices and show military progress, while concerns persist over the fallout from escalation.
Why it matters Any strike on Iran could raise tensions in the Gulf and affect energy markets and oil prices, which bear directly on regional economies. Tying military options to the election calendar makes the issue more sensitive, though no decision to carry out a strike has been announced.
Three killed, 36 injured in attacks on two Saudi airports
Saudi authorities said on Wednesday evening that three people were killed and 36 others wounded in attacks on Abha airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The authorities did not say who carried out the attacks.
Saudi-led coalition says it struck Houthi military targets in Yemen
The Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen's internationally recognized government announced strikes on what it called Houthi military targets across several Yemeni governorates. According to Russian media reports, the coalition said the operation destroyed dozens of targets in response to attacks on Saudi territory. In its statement, it said assaults on civilians would not go unanswered.
