Two security sources said Iraq ordered the closure of the Shalamcheh border crossing with Iran as a precaution following a recent attack on Saudi Arabia.

Saudi airstrikes and a follow-on counteroffensive are focused on recapturing Mocha and territory south toward the Bab al-Mandeb, initiated by an air campaign. The Houthis anticipated the move and employ concealed warfare—deep bunkers and hidden weapon, launch and air-defence sites—which has previously frustrated U.S. and Israeli efforts to neutralize Houthi military capacity and its ability to launch ballistic strikes at vessels linked to Israel. Success will require Saudi forces or Yemen's internationally recognized government to sustain a southern ground presence extending to the Houthis' largest military base and the weapons depot the group seized on Thursday. Retaking those areas will require a large-scale ground offensive.

Fitch expects Italy's economic growth to average 0.8% annually in 2026-28.