Saudi Arabia intercepts Iranian missiles allegedly targeting Riyadh, eastern region

By Uzair Adam

Saudi Arabia has condemned what it described as direct military aggression by Iran, confirming that Iranian forces targeted Riyadh and the Kingdom’s eastern region in a sharp escalation of tensions across the Gulf.

In a statement issued by the Saudi Foreign Ministry and carried by Al Jazeera, the Kingdom said its air defence systems successfully intercepted the incoming missiles and drones.

“These attacks cannot be justified under any pretext or in any way,” the statement said, adding that Tehran had been aware that Saudi Arabia would not allow its airspace or territory to be used for operations against it.

The acknowledgement represents a significant shift in Riyadh’s posture, moving from expressions of solidarity with Gulf allies to confirming that it was itself a direct target.

The escalation followed coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel on multiple locations inside Iran. Washington and Tel Aviv described the operation as aimed at weakening Iran’s military capacity and countering perceived threats.

Tehran, however, denounced the attacks as violations of its sovereignty and pledged a decisive response.

Within hours, Iran launched missiles and drones toward Israeli and American assets across the region.

Air defence systems were activated in several Gulf capitals amid reports of explosions and intercepted projectiles.

Iran had earlier warned that any assault on its territory would result in American bases in the region being treated as legitimate targets.

Despite calls for restraint from some Middle Eastern states, the United States proceeded with its military operation.

Confirmation that Riyadh and the eastern region were also targeted has intensified fears of a wider regional conflict.

Saudi Arabia now finds itself navigating a delicate strategic balance. As a longstanding security partner of Washington, the Kingdom remains aligned with the United States’ defence framework.

At the same time, it has in recent years sought to ease tensions with Tehran after decades of rivalry.

The confrontation builds on deep-rooted disputes over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and proxy conflicts in Yemen, Syria, and Iraq, alongside recurring flare-ups between Israel and Iran.

Diplomatic efforts to calm tensions have repeatedly faltered, leaving the region exposed to sudden escalation.

Analysts warn that continued hostilities could disrupt energy supplies, unsettle global markets, and strain an already fragile regional security environment.

Several air routes to and from parts of the Middle East have already been suspended amid the rising tensions.

With military exchanges intensifying and rhetoric hardening, the region faces a defining moment, as uncertainty grows over whether diplomacy can regain momentum and prevent a broader conflict.