Jeddah: Saudi Arabia on Monday said it had shot down drones launched by Iran-affiliated militias operating in Iraq, accusing the groups of carrying out attacks targeting the Kingdom.

The Saudi Foreign Ministry described the reported attacks as "reprehensible" and said the country would continue to defend its sovereignty and national security against any threats. In its statement, Saudi Arabia said it reserved the right to respond to what it called sources of aggression and would take necessary steps to prevent further threats.

The ministry reiterated that protecting the Kingdom's security remained a priority amid rising regional tensions.

Saudi urges Iraq to prevent cross-border attacks

Saudi authorities also called on the Iraqi government to ensure that its territory is not used as a base for attacks against neighbouring countries.

The statement comes amid wider concerns over the activities of armed groups in the region and the possibility of increased cross-border tensions. The latest incident adds to ongoing security challenges in the Middle East, where tensions between regional powers and Iran-backed armed groups have remained a major concern.

Saudi Arabia has previously raised concerns over attacks involving drones and missiles, while Iran-backed groups have operated in several conflict zones across the region.