The story: “Direct contact” between Iraq’s prime minister and Saudi Arabia’s crown prince has resulted in the safe repatriation of Iran’s ambassador to Yemen, Amwaj.media has learned. Hassan Irloo, the Iranian diplomat—and alleged Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) officer—was evacuated to Tehran late on Dec. 18, informed sources in the region have asserted, speaking without attribution given the sensitivity of the matter.

Meanwhile, one source has stated that a delayed fifth round of Iran-Saudi talks this year, so far held in Baghdad, will be “coming soon.” As Amwaj.media has previously reported, the dialogue has stalled on account of the delayed government formation process in Iraq.

The details: Speaking on condition of anonymity, informed sources have told Amwaj.media that Iran’s ambassador to Yemen was returned to Tehran...