Dalena Reporters l March 5, 2026
RIYADH — Saudi Arabia’s air-defense systems successfully intercepted three ballistic missiles aimed at the Prince Sultan Air Base, according to a statement released by the Saudi Ministry of Defense.
The ministry did not immediately disclose the exact time of the attack or identify the party responsible for launching the missiles. However, the interception marks the latest incident in a rapidly escalating regional conflict affecting several Gulf countries.
Series of Missile and Drone Threats
Saudi officials said the missile interception follows several other attempted strikes in recent days. Authorities confirmed that:
- Three cruise missiles targeting industrial zones in Al-Kharj were neutralized.
- A drone attack was intercepted over the Ras Tanura oil refinery in the Eastern Province.
- Earlier in the week, eight drones were shot down near Riyadh and Al-Kharj.
The incidents are part of a wider wave of missile and drone activity affecting Gulf states amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
Embassy Attack and Regional Escalation
The United States Embassy in Riyadh was also struck by drones earlier this week, causing a small fire and limited structural damage, though no casualties were reported. Iran’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia later denied Tehran’s involvement in the attack.
Gulf States Condemn Attacks
The growing security crisis has prompted a strong response from Gulf nations. In an extraordinary meeting in Riyadh, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) reaffirmed the right of member states to defend themselves against what they described as “treacherous Iranian aggression.”
Following a cabinet meeting chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia also declared that it reserves the full right to respond to attacks and will take necessary measures to protect its territory, citizens and residents.
Impact on Global Shipping
The conflict is also affecting international shipping routes. A missile strike on a commercial vessel near Oman has contributed to a backlog of around 150 tankers near the Strait of Hormuz, while oil traffic through the strategic waterway has reportedly fallen by about 86 percent.
Security analysts warn that continued missile exchanges could further destabilize the region and threaten critical energy supply routes that the global economy relies on.