Riyadh: Saudi Arabia announced that it detected and intercepted the launch of a ballistic missile aimed at the Riyadh region, while two additional missiles landed in uninhabited areas. The Defense Ministry confirmed that five drones were also intercepted and destroyed overnight, with four being neutralized in the eastern region and a fifth in a separate operation.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Saudi Civil Defense directorate reported that the danger in Al-Kharj had subsided and advised residents to adhere to official instructions, avoid gathering or filming, and steer clear of potentially hazardous areas. The source of the drones remains unidentified, but the kingdom has been dealing with persistent aerial threats amid escalating regional tensions.

Saudi Arabia has not disclosed who is behind the drone attacks. However, the kingdom has expressed ongoing concerns over Iranian strikes in the region, labeling them as violations of international law. In response to recent attacks, Saudi Arabia expelled the Iranian military attach©, assistant attach©, and three other staff members of the Iranian Embassy, giving them 24 hours to exit the country.

The escalation follows a series of US-Israeli strikes against Iran that commenced on February 28, resulting in significant casualties, including the death of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iran has launched drone and missile attacks targeting Gulf nations hosting US military assets, further intensifying the conflict.