Updated

Iraq has called for the creation of a joint security council between Iran and Saudi Arabia, citing a 'crisis of trust' between the two regional rivals. Qasim al-Araji, national security adviser to the Iraqi prime minister, said Baghdad had presented the proposal to both Tehran and Riyadh in hopes of easing tensions between the two Gulf powers. The initiative reflects Iraq's continued efforts to position itself as a regional mediator amid heightened instability following Iran's recent conflict with Israel and the US, as both Tehran and Riyadh navigate a shifting security landscape.