Iran vs Israel-US: Iran keeps targeting sites in Saudi, Oman, Bahrain
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Gulf: The escalating Iran–Israel conflict widened dramatically as Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting multiple Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, Oman and Bahrain, according to official statements and media reports. While air defence systems intercepted many of the projectiles, explosions were reported in several cities, raising concerns over regional security and stability
Saudi Arabia intercepts missiles over Riyadh and Eastern Province
Saudi Arabia said its armed forces successfully intercepted ballistic missiles and drones launched toward the capital Riyadh, the oil-rich Eastern Province and the southern border city of Jizan.
The Saudi military deployed advanced air defence systems, including the US-made MIM-104 Patriot and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD), to destroy the incoming threats mid-air. Officials stated that the missiles were aimed at strategic oil facilities and residential areas but were neutralised before reaching their targets.
There were no reports of casualties or major damage in the kingdom. Authorities said debris from intercepted missiles fell in uninhabited areas.
International news agency Agence France-Presse (AFP) reported that loud explosions were heard in the eastern areas of Riyadh. Residents described seeing smoke rising into the sky, and AFP correspondents also confirmed hearing the blasts. However, there was no immediate official clarification regarding the exact cause or extent of any damage.
Drone attacks reported in Oman
In neighbouring Oman, drone attacks were reported at the commercial port of Duqm and involved an oil tanker in Qasab.
According to the Oman News Agency, two drones were used in the attack on Duqm port. One drone fell on a worker’s residence, injuring a foreign worker. The wreckage of a second drone landed near fuel storage tanks but caused no reported damage.
Omani authorities have not confirmed the source of the attack. The incidents were reported in the broader context of escalating Israeli-Iranian tensions.
Saudi Arabia strongly condemned what it described as Iran’s “brutal attack” on Oman, calling it a blatant violation of Omani sovereignty. In an official statement, Riyadh expressed full solidarity with Muscat and pledged support for any security measures taken by Oman. Saudi officials warned that actions undermining the sovereignty of neighbouring countries could destabilise the region and carry serious consequences. The kingdom also urged the international community to take a firm stance against such violations.
Bahrain faces repeated missile and drone strikes
Bahrain also reported multiple missile and drone attacks over the past 48 hours, with authorities stating that most projectiles were intercepted by air defence systems.
The initial Iranian missile attack reportedly began around noon the previous day, followed by drone strikes continuing late into the night. At approximately 3:20 am, a drone struck near Bahrain International Airport, causing minor damage but no casualties.
At around 7:45 am, a separate drone fell in front of the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Manama, resulting in minor structural damage. Civil Defence teams brought the fire under control. A similar drone strike was reported the previous night at the Ira Tower in Manama, where more than 50 per cent of the building was said to have burned. No fatalities were reported.
Several individuals sought treatment at Salmaniya Hospital for physical discomfort, but authorities said there were no serious injuries.
Sirens were activated across the country as defence forces worked to intercept incoming missiles. Officials reported that debris from intercepted projectiles damaged buildings and vehicles in Muharraq and other areas.
Iran also reportedly targeted a service centre associated with the United States Fifth Fleet in Juffair, followed by additional attacks in the same area within hours. Further strikes were reported in the Hoora and Seef districts of Manama.
