Saudi air defences intercepted nine drones heading toward the Shaybah Oil Field in the Empty Quarter, the Ministry of Defense said on Monday.
Early Tuesday, the ministry said a ballistic missile and additional drones launched toward the Eastern Province were also shot down.
The interceptions followed an incident on Sunday evening in Al-Kharj governorate, where two Bangladeshi nationals were killed and 12 others injured after a projectile struck a site belonging to a maintenance and cleaning company. Saudi Civil Defense said the strike caused material damage in the residential area.
Riyadh has described the recent developments as part of Iran’s continued escalation against the Kingdom and other Gulf states. In a statement issued Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the attacks were “unacceptable under any circumstances" and warned that if Iran continues, it would bear the heaviest diplomatic, economic, and strategic consequences, and be “the biggest loser”.
The ministry stated the Kingdom’s right to take measures to protect its people, territory and sovereignty.
It also conveyed condolences to Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates following the deaths of members of their armed and security forces while on duty. Saudi Arabia affirmed solidarity with both countries and pledged to support any measures they take, while wishing the injured a speedy recovery.