Riyadh — Saudi Arabia has accused Iran-aligned Iraqi militant groups of launching a drone attack against critical oil infrastructure, escalating tensions across the Gulf region.
In a statement on Monday, the Saudi Ministry of Defence said its air defence systems intercepted and destroyed several drones that were heading toward petroleum facilities in the Kingdom’s Eastern Province and the capital, Riyadh.
Speaking to reporters, Saudi military spokesperson Major General Turki Al-Maliki said the attempted strikes were successfully thwarted before they could inflict significant damage. He added that Saudi Arabia retains the right to protect its territory and national interests, warning that any response would come “at the appropriate time and place.”
However, conflicting accounts quickly emerged. Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency reported that the attacks had successfully struck the Abqaiq oil-processing complex, claiming the facility was engulfed in a large fire. Saudi authorities have not confirmed those reports or acknowledged any damage to the site.
The Abqaiq facility is one of the world’s most strategically important oil-processing centres, playing a vital role in global energy supplies. Any disruption to its operations could have significant implications for international oil markets and regional security.
The latest incident comes amid heightened tensions between Saudi Arabia and groups aligned with Iran, raising concerns over the security of energy infrastructure in the Gulf and the potential for further regional escalation.
Officials are continuing to assess the situation, while international observers are closely monitoring developments for any impact on global oil production and prices.
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