Capital of Dhofar, Oman; a coastal hub
Houthi attacks on Yemen’s Red Sea coast have intensified, striking Mocha and al-Makha ports as government forces and militants trade strikes across Marib, Taiz and the western coast. The violence threatens shipping lanes, raises regional tensions, and risks drawing in regional powers as talks for a ceasefire stall.
Gulf states and Iran have been negotiating a temporary shipping framework for the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing war-related disruptions. Oman and Iran are coordinating on routes while Bahrain has declined participation. Oil-price volatility remains as markets watch for a regional security framework to emerge.
Lebanon and Israel will meet in Rome in October to discuss a US-brokered framework aimed at restoring Lebanon’s sovereignty and Israel’s security. The talks, part of a trilateral mechanism, follow rounds that ended without breakthroughs. Ambassadors will also meet in Washington; no decisions are expected in this stage.