Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned what it described as “unjustified” Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting Gulf nations hosting U.S. facilities, including an incident at the United States Embassy in Riyadh. The attacks have heightened tensions in the Middle East and prompted coordinated diplomatic responses from U.S. and Gulf officials.
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a joint statement with the United States, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates, labeled the strikes “indiscriminate and reckless”, calling them violations of sovereignty that endanger civilians and destabilize the region. The partners reaffirmed their right to self-defense and emphasized regional unity in protecting their populations.
On Tuesday, two drones reportedly struck the U.S. Embassy compound in Riyadh, causing a minor fire and property damage. No casualties were reported, as the embassy was unoccupied at the time. U.S. officials issued a shelter-in-place advisory for Americans in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dhahran while local authorities conducted damage assessments.
Saudi authorities also summoned Iran’s ambassador to formally protest the attacks, reiterating that the strikes were unjustified and stressing the kingdom’s right to defend its territorial integrity. The Ministry of Defense has reportedly raised military readiness in response to the escalating tensions.
The attacks come amid heightened regional friction following recent U.S. and Israeli military actions, which Iran has said it is retaliating against. Analysts warn that such confrontations could exacerbate instability in the Gulf and pose risks to international diplomatic and economic interests.
Saudi Arabia and its allies continue to call for restraint and dialogue, while simultaneously strengthening security measures around critical U.S. and Saudi installations.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
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