US Embassy in Riyadh Hit by Drones as Gulf Tensions Escalate
Drone Strikes Also Reported at Oman’s Duqm Port and US Base in Bahrain
RIYADH – The US Embassy in Riyadh hit by drones early Tuesday, triggering a limited fire inside the diplomatic compound, according to Saudi defense officials.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense confirmed that two drones struck the embassy premises, causing minor structural damage. Authorities said the fire was quickly contained and no casualties were immediately reported.
The incident comes amid rising regional tensions following recent US-Israel military operations targeting Iran. Gulf states hosting American military and diplomatic facilities have faced heightened security threats in recent days.
Oman’s Duqm Port Targeted
In a separate development, drones reportedly struck a fuel storage facility at the commercial port in Duqm, Oman. The attack caused damage to infrastructure at the strategic maritime hub, which plays a key role in regional trade and logistics.
Omani authorities have not confirmed casualties but said emergency teams responded swiftly to secure the area and assess the impact.
US Base in Bahrain Also Threatened
Regional security sources indicated that additional drone activity was detected near a US military installation in Bahrain. Air defense systems were reportedly activated to intercept incoming threats.
The United States Department of Defense has not released a detailed statement but confirmed that American assets across the Gulf remain on high alert.
Rising Retaliation Across the Gulf
The wave of drone incidents appears to be part of Iran’s broader retaliation campaign across the region following joint US-Israeli strikes. Gulf governments have increased security around critical infrastructure, airports, ports, and diplomatic missions.
Saudi authorities emphasized that national security forces are operating at elevated readiness levels to protect both domestic and foreign facilities.
Officials continue to monitor developments as tensions remain high across the Middle East.
