The story: Reports are circulating that Iran and Saudi Arabia have held secret meetings mediated by Iraq. While officials in Tehran have avoided comment, sources in Baghdad speaking on condition of anonymity have confirmed the talks to Amwaj.media. If a rapprochement is truly underway, it could advance a political settlement to the six-year-long conflict in Yemen. It also notably comes as the Joe Biden administration is revising the US approach to the region—hoping to improve ties with Iran while rebalancing relations with Saudi Arabia.

The coverage: Citing unnamed Iraqi officials, the Financial Times reported on Apr. 18 that Tehran and Riyadh have been engaging in secret talks in Baghdad...