Saudi Arabia activated its air defenses after ballistic missiles were launched toward the capital, marking a serious escalation in regional tensions linked to the ongoing Iran conflict.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense confirmed that three ballistic missiles were fired toward the Riyadh region early on Sunday.
Air defense systems successfully intercepted one missile, while the remaining two fell in uninhabited areas, preventing casualties or major damage.
Authorities briefly issued a civil defense warning in Al-Kharj before confirming that the threat had passed within minutes.
Alongside the missile threat, Saudi forces also intercepted multiple aerial attacks overnight.
The Ministry of Defense reported that five drones were shot down, including four in a single operation in the Eastern Province and a fifth in a separate interception.
Additional statements later confirmed that at least four more drones were also intercepted over the same region, highlighting the scale of the attempted attacks.
Rising regional tensions
Saudi Arabia has faced repeated aerial threats in recent weeks as the wider conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel intensifies.
While officials did not explicitly confirm the source of the missiles and drones in this instance, Riyadh has consistently blamed Iran for targeting Gulf countries and regional infrastructure.
Also Read: Iranian missile strikes hit Israel's Dimona, Arad; over 100 injured
The latest attack underscores growing instability across the Middle East, with multiple countries now directly impacted.
Saudi Arabia takes strong diplomatic action
In response to what it called “blatant Iranian attacks,” Saudi Arabia announced firm diplomatic measures against Tehran.
The Kingdom declared the Iranian embassy’s military attaché, assistant attaché, and three other staff members persona non grata, ordering them to leave the country within 24 hours.
The move signals a sharp escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
Saudi Foreign Ministry condemns ‘flagrant violations’
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry issued a strong statement condemning Iran’s actions as violations of international law and state sovereignty.
The ministry said Iran’s targeting of Saudi territory, civilian facilities, economic interests, and diplomatic premises breaches international conventions, United Nations Security Council resolutions, and the principles of good neighborliness.
It also stated that such actions contradict the values of Islamic unity that Iran claims to uphold.
Saudi officials warned that Iran’s continued attacks would lead to further escalation and could have serious consequences for bilateral relations now and in the future.
The Kingdom reaffirmed its earlier position, noting that ongoing aggression threatens regional stability and security. It also emphasized that Iran’s actions undermine the Beijing Agreement and broader diplomatic efforts.
Saudi Arabia vows to defend sovereignty
The Saudi government declared full readiness to defend its territory, citizens, and national interests against any threats.
Citing Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, the Kingdom said it would take all necessary measures to safeguard its sovereignty, airspace, and resources.
Authorities also urged residents to follow safety instructions, avoid gathering in risky areas, and rely on official updates during emergencies.
Saudi Arabia’s position has received backing from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), as well as several Arab and Islamic nations. These countries echoed Riyadh’s concerns, stating that Iran’s actions contribute to instability and violate international norms.
The growing support highlights widening regional alignment against Tehran amid escalating tensions.
