Saudi Arabia intercepts dozens of drones as Iran steps up Gulf attacks

Saudi Arabia’s air defences intercepted dozens of drones in the early hours of Saturday after Iran stepped up attacks on Gulf energy facilities following Israel’s strike on Iran’s South Pars gas field earlier this week.

The Saudi defense ministry said 51 drones were launched toward the Eastern Province, where key oil fields and refineries are located. By Saturday morning, officials reported that 92 drones had been shot down since Friday.

Based on defence ministry figures since February 28, at least 575 drones have targeted the Kingdom. Over the same period, Saudi forces have also intercepted 42 ballistic missiles and seven cruise missiles.

The escalation has affected other Gulf states.