Saudi forces shoot down ballistic missile, drones targeting Riyadh diplomatic quarter
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has intercepted another drone targeting the capital, as regional tensions continue to escalate amid the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Defence confirmed that the unmanned aerial vehicle was shot down as it attempted to approach Riyadh’s diplomatic quarter. It marks the latest in a series of aerial threats, with Saudi forces reporting that multiple drones have been intercepted in recent hours, including at least one other aircraft heading towards the same area.
Military officials also said a ballistic missile was successfully neutralised during the same period of heightened alert. Debris from the interception fell near Prince Sultan Air Base, though authorities stressed that no damage was caused to the facility or surrounding areas.
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The incidents come against the backdrop of a rapidly intensifying regional crisis. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia has announced it will host a meeting of foreign ministers from several Arab and Islamic countries in Riyadh on Wednesday evening.
According to officials, the talks will focus on coordinating efforts to support regional security and stability, as concerns grow over the widening conflict.
The crisis has now entered its 19th day, following a joint US-Israeli military operation against Iran on 28 February, which triggered retaliatory drone and missile strikes from Tehran. These attacks have since targeted Gulf countries, Israel and United States assets, marking one of the most serious security challenges in the region in recent years.
The fallout has disrupted key transport and logistics networks, with major aviation hubs such as Dubai and Doha facing repeated airport closures. The disruptions have affected global trade, passenger travel and the delivery of essential medical supplies.
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Ahead of the meeting, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held a series of calls with counterparts from the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Iraq, Syria, Algeria and Bosnia and Herzegovina to lay the groundwork for coordinated discussions.
Wednesday’s gathering is expected to serve as a platform for Arab and Islamic nations to push for de-escalation and prevent the situation from deteriorating further.
(ANI)