Saudi Arabia Hit by Drones Launched by Iran-Backed Militias in Iraq, Vows Response

RIYADH, Jul 27:  Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned what it described as "reprehensible" drone attacks launched by Iran-affiliated militias operating in Iraq, reaffirming its commitment to defend the Kingdom's security and sovereignty against any act of aggression.

In a statement, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the Kingdom "strongly condemns" the attacks and stressed its determination to safeguard its national security, deter aggressors, and exercise its legitimate right to respond to the sources of aggression.

The ministry emphasized that Saudi Arabia remains resolute in protecting its sovereignty while taking all necessary measures to counter threats against the Kingdom.

The statement also called on the Iraqi government to fulfill its responsibilities by ensuring that Iraqi territory is not used as a base or launchpad for attacks targeting neighboring countries.

The latest statement underscores growing regional security concerns and highlights Riyadh's demand for stronger action to prevent cross-border attacks by armed groups operating from Iraq.

Earlier, Saudi Arabia's air defenses intercepted and destroyed several drones that attempted to target petroleum facilities in the Eastern Province and Riyadh regions, the Ministry of Defense announced.

The ministry's official spokesperson, Major General Turki Al-Maliki, said the drones were intercepted in the past few hours before reaching their intended targets.

Al-Maliki stated that the attacks were launched from Iraqi territory and carried out by Iran-affiliated militias, describing the attempts as terrorist attacks targeting the Kingdom's vital infrastructure.

He affirmed Saudi Arabia's right to defend its territory, security, and capabilities, stressing that the Kingdom reserves the right to respond to the sources of aggression at the appropriate time and place.

The statement comes amid heightened regional tensions and growing concerns over attacks targeting energy facilities in the region.