Tensions in the Middle East dominated the morning, as Iran's Revolutionary Guards issued a new threat against undersea internet cables in the Strait of Hormuz while Tehran sought an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council. Oil prices hovered near $110 a barrel, and Pakistan's army chief arrived in Tehran for a visit. Here are the top stories.
Iran threatens undersea internet cables in Hormuz
Iran's Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) threatened to target undersea communication cables in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that "all of the world's internet and commercial data depend on them." A spokesman said seven major cables pass through the strategic waterway, raising alarm over the security of critical global infrastructure and commercial connectivity. The threat marks a major escalation in the confrontation that has already disrupted Gulf shipping and energy flows.
Iran seeks emergency UN Security Council meeting
Iran's UN envoy has written to the UN Secretary-General and the Security Council president seeking an emergency meeting over what Tehran called "relentless threats" from the US and Israel. The letter follows reports of a possible US strike using the massive MOAB bomb and Israeli threats against Iran's energy infrastructure. Iranian politicians also warned that nine unnamed nations hosting US military bases could face retaliation if US operations against Iran resume.
Talks in limbo ahead of planned Doha meeting
Iran said there are "no planned negotiations" with the United States in the coming days, even as Washington said a meeting in Doha was set for October 21. Tehran said an expert delegation would travel to Doha this week only for follow-up on frozen assets, signaling that any diplomatic breakthrough remains uncertain. China condemned the recent attacks on Iran as "blatant aggression," Premier Li Qiang said, noting they came during negotiations without UN Security Council consultation.
Pakistan's army chief visits Tehran
Pakistan's Army Chief Asim Munir arrived in Tehran on Tuesday for meetings with Iranian officials, marking direct Pakistani involvement in the regional diplomacy around the Iran crisis. The visit comes as Pakistan also seeks urgent LNG cargoes amid supply disruptions caused by the Hormuz tensions, a direct economic impact on Pakistan's energy security.
Yemen army strikes Houthi targets in Taiz
Yemen's army launched air strikes against Houthi targets in the province of Taiz, killing 129 fighters and wounding 176 in the past 48 hours, according to Yemeni military sources. Fighting continued across multiple fronts as the conflict in Yemen escalated alongside the wider Gulf confrontation. Separately, the Shabwa Houthi attack toll stands at 58 killed and more than 200 wounded, according to the provincial governor.
Market snapshot
Bitcoin traded around $81,600, down roughly 0.8% and rangebound just above its 50-day moving average, with corporate buyers absorbing supply even as ETF outflows continued for a second straight week. Ether held near $2,400. Oil was the standout: Brent crude neared $110 again, trading around $109.76 on Tuesday as fresh attacks outweighed the easing from Russia sanctions relief, while December WTI sat near $98.47. No new China–US/UK tariff moves were reported. Exchange delistings remain on standing watch, with no new announcements.
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ARY News — 12 AM Headlines, October 20 (Pakistan/regional headlines)
