Riyadh - Saudi Arabia’s largest oil refinery has temporarily stopped operations after a drone strike caused damage to key infrastructure, authorities confirmed. The incident occurred early Wednesday when unmanned aerial vehicles targeted facilities at the processing complex. Initial reports say production has been paused as engineers assess the damage and begin repairs.
Officials did not immediately release details on casualties, but emergency teams were deployed to secure the site and prevent further disruption. The refinery plays a crucial role in Saudi Arabia’s energy sector and feeds both domestic demand and global export markets.
The halt in output comes at a time of heightened regional tensions, with recent conflict in the Middle East already putting pressure on global energy supplies. Analysts say any disruption in production at a major refinery can ripple through markets, pushing fuel prices higher and tightening supply chains.
Saudi authorities said they are investigating the attack and working closely with security partners to strengthen defences around key energy infrastructure.
Energy market watchers will be monitoring developments closely as information becomes available.
