Saudi defence forces shot down multiple waves of Iranian drones entering its territory, amid escalating regional conflict and threats to global oil supplies.
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s defence ministry announced it intercepted dozens of drones entering its airspace.
A ministry spokesperson stated that twelve drones were intercepted and destroyed after crossing into Saudi territory.
Separate statements confirmed the downing of an initial wave of nine drones, followed by another wave of seven.
The interceptions come as Iran carries out attacks on Gulf states in retaliation for recent US-Israeli military strikes.
Saudi authorities had earlier confirmed shooting down several drones headed towards the crucial Shaybah oil field this week.
Iran has vowed to disrupt global energy markets following strikes that killed its supreme leader at the end of last month.
Retaliatory Iranian attacks have severely hampered shipping through the vital Strait of Hormuz.
Nearly a fifth of the world’s crude oil supply passes through this strategic waterway.