Saudi-led coalition reports intercepting drones and missiles as Tehran denies role
The Saudi-led coalition said on Friday that it intercepted and destroyed drones and missiles launched toward various parts of the kingdom and over the Red Sea. Tallies differ by outlet: BBC Arabic cited four drones and three missiles, CNN Arabic reported three drones and two cruise missiles, and Sky News Arabia referred to a ballistic missile fired toward Yanbu. The Houthi group, Ansar Allah, said it shot down an armed Saudi reconnaissance drone in Marib, while Tehran denied involvement in the attacks and offered to mediate.
Why it matters Attacks reported across several Saudi regions and extending to the Red Sea, a vital shipping lane, point to a widening escalation. Tehran's denial of involvement alongside its mediation offer hints at a possible diplomatic track, though its shape remains unclear.
Iran's army disputes Trump's claim that its air defenses were destroyed
Iran's army on Friday rejected statements attributed to US President Donald Trump that Tehran's air defenses had been destroyed. According to RT Arabic, the army said the downing of American drones shows the strength of its system and the growth of its capabilities. Army spokesman Brig. Gen. Mohammad Akraminia told CNN Arabic the military has a plan that would push US warships further away from the region.
Oil climbs to $110 a barrel for first time since May
Oil futures rose to $110 a barrel on Friday, their highest level since May. According to Al Jazeera, Brent settled at $109.86 for a weekly gain of 4.9%, while US crude gained 10.4% over the week. The rally is tied to concerns over rising Middle East tensions and pressure on supplies, and it could push US gasoline and diesel prices higher ahead of the congressional midterm elections.
