Saudi Arabia has warned that it reserves the right to respond after intercepting drones allegedly launched by Iran-backed militias from Iraqi territory. The attempted attacks reportedly targeted key oil infrastructure in the kingdom.
The Saudi Ministry of Defence said air defence systems destroyed several drones before they reached oil facilities in the Eastern Province and the capital, Riyadh. Officials confirmed that no casualties or damage were reported.
Military spokesman Major General Turki Al Malki described the incident as a terrorist attack targeting Saudi Arabia’s energy infrastructure. He added that the kingdom would respond at an appropriate time and place.
Iraq Launches Investigation Into Drone Incident
The reported attacks prompted an immediate response from the Iraqi government. Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi ordered an investigation into the alleged drone launches from Iraqi territory.
Iraqi military spokesman Sabah Al Numan said authorities were reviewing available evidence to determine those responsible. Furthermore, he stated that legal action would be taken against anyone found involved.
Saudi officials have not disclosed how many drones were intercepted during the operation. However, they said the country’s air defences successfully prevented damage to critical energy facilities.
Houthis Claim Separate Drone Strikes
Meanwhile, Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement claimed responsibility for separate drone attacks targeting facilities linked to Saudi Arabia’s East-West oil pipeline. The pipeline transports crude oil from the kingdom’s eastern oil fields to the Red Sea port of Yanbu.
Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree said the attacks were carried out in response to alleged Saudi drone incursions into Yemeni airspace. The claim has not been independently verified.
Separately, Jordan’s armed forces announced that the Royal Jordanian Air Force intercepted and destroyed two drones targeting the country. Military officials confirmed that the incident caused no casualties or material damage.
