Gulf News

US intelligence has assessed that Saudi Arabia has not ruled out acquiring nuclear weapons, according to reporting carried by Gulf News. The finding underscores longstanding concerns about nuclear proliferation in the Middle East, particularly as tensions with Iran persist and Riyadh weighs its strategic options. Commentators are debating what the assessment means for regional security and US-Saudi relations.

Iran's IRGC Navy has seized a second US military underwater drone, according to the Iranian news agency Tasnim. The reported capture is the latest in a series of maritime incidents between Iranian forces and the US military in the Persian Gulf, where tensions over naval operations and surveillance equipment have repeatedly flared in recent years.

Iran says it will press ahead with its plan regarding the Strait of Hormuz despite Washington's rejection of the proposal. The strait is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, so any Iranian move there carries major implications for energy markets and regional security. Tensions between Tehran and Washington continue to drive debate over shipping safety and possible escalation in the Gulf.

The Governor of the Qatar Central Bank has met with Algeria's Minister of Finance. Such meetings typically cover monetary cooperation, banking ties and potential financial agreements between the two countries. Details of the discussion, including any outcomes or agreements, have not been disclosed beyond confirmation that the meeting took place.