Saudi Blames Militias for Oil Facility Attacks
Saudi Arabia has said its air defences intercepted several drones targeting oil facilities in the kingdom, blaming Iran-backed militias operating from Iraqi territory. Riyadh warned that it reserved the right to respond to attacks against its security and critical energy infrastructure.
Saudi Oil Facilities Targeted by Drones
The attempted strikes targeted petroleum facilities in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province and the Riyadh region. Saudi authorities described the incidents as deliberate attacks launched from Iraqi territory.
Officials did not report any major disruption to crude oil production or exports following the interceptions. However, the attacks renewed concerns over the vulnerability of energy infrastructure across the Gulf amid rising regional tensions.
Saudi Arabia said it would continue taking all necessary measures to protect its population, territory and strategically important oil installations.
Saudi Arabia Blames Iran-Backed Militias
The Saudi government attributed the drone attacks to armed groups supported by Iran and operating from Iraq.
Riyadh called on the Iraqi government to prevent its territory from being used as a launchpad for attacks against neighbouring countries. Saudi officials also warned that the kingdom retained the right to respond at a time and place of its choosing.
The accusations could increase pressure on Baghdad to control militias operating beyond the authority of the central government.
Houthis Claim Separate Oil Infrastructure Attack
Separately, Yemen’s Houthi movement claimed attacks against oil supply and transportation infrastructure linking eastern Saudi Arabia with the Red Sea export hub of Yanbu.
It was not immediately clear whether the Houthi claim referred to the same incidents attributed by Riyadh to militias operating from Iraq.
Saudi Arabia’s east-west pipeline and Yanbu facilities have become increasingly important for transporting and exporting crude oil while security threats affect traditional Gulf shipping routes.
