Egypt has turned down a Houthi proposal for direct maritime talks regarding the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, avoiding implicit recognition of the group amid rising regional tensions and a drone attack on a Saudi oil pipeline.

Saudi Arabia has suspended operations on its crucial East-West oil pipeline following aerial attacks, driving Brent crude prices past $100 per barrel.

Prime Minister Mark Carney and Premier Danielle Smith have announced a formal agreement to construct a new oil pipeline to Asian markets. The project is linked to carbon capture initiatives and has drawn criticism from political leaders and environmental organizations.