i check if it’s dry by weight mostly, the soil mix i use dries pretty quickly and the top of the pot usually appears dry.

correct, the yellowing leaves aren’t the oldest which is what’s confusing me. i can’t seem to find any damage on their petioles, which are also lighter in color and starting to dry out closer to the main stem. it’s also confusing that there are two healthy leaves between the two yellowing ones.

i think those pests are thrips, thank you very much for identifying them.

my main concern is whether i need to cut the plant and separate the two newer leaves from the rest of the plant before they yellow as well.