Special Report: Iran and Regional Developments, August 14, 2026

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reported on August 14, 2026, that Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaydi is studying security and logistical conditions to retake the Jurf al-Sakhr area from Kataib Hezbollah. This move is part of a broader effort by the Iraqi government to curb Iranian-backed militias and enforce disarmament by September 30. Iraqi political sources indicate that while the government prefers a diplomatic resolution, preparations for a military operation are underway should the militias refuse to comply. Meanwhile, Iranian-backed militias reportedly launched drone attacks targeting Erbil, which were intercepted by air defense systems. In the Strait of Hormuz, the United Arab Emirates accused Iran of drone attacks on two Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) tankers on August 13. The UK Maritime Trade Operations confirmed that two vessels sustained minor damage in the strait. In Tehran, officials close to the Supreme Leader’s office are attempting to contain internal polarization regarding negotiations with the United States. Ali Saeedi, head of the Supreme Leader’s Political-Ideological Office, emphasized that negotiations must be conducted under the Supreme Leader's supervision alongside continued resistance. Additionally, in Yemen, the Republic of Yemen Government (ROYG) reported the seizure of dual-use electronic components at ports and border crossings, suspected to be intended for the assembly of FPV drones.