US imposes new sanctions on Iran amid Houthi attack allegations

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated following new US sanctions against Iran and allegations of Iranian involvement in attacks against Saudi Arabia. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi criticized the Trump administration's decision to impose 36 new sanctions targeting Iran's aviation sector and related entities. Araghchi argued that decades of sanctions and military actions have failed to achieve US objectives and have instead damaged American global reputation.

Separately, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused Iran of being the hand behind Houthi rebel attacks on Saudi Arabian territory. Rubio stated that the Houthis act as Iranian proxies and agents. These attacks, which targeted various cities including Abha and Najran, hit both civilians and economic installations, resulting in numerous injuries. The United Nations and several nations have condemned the strikes on Saudi energy infrastructure and civilian populations.