RIYADH: Overnight attacks in Saudi Arabia struck a major petrochemical complex in the eastern industrial city of Jubail, raising fears of further escalation in the growing conflict across the Gulf region.
A source on the ground said a fire broke out at facilities operated by Saudi Basic Industries Corporation, commonly known as SABIC, after loud explosions were heard across the city. The source said the blasts hit the company’s plants in Jubail, one of the largest industrial hubs in the world.
Jubail is home to massive facilities producing steel, petrochemicals, gasoline, lubricating oil and chemical fertilisers. The city is considered one of the most important energy and manufacturing centers in Saudi Arabia, making the attack especially significant for regional industry and global oil markets.
Saudi air defense systems were activated during the night after a barrage of missiles targeted the kingdom’s eastern region. According to the Saudi Defence Ministry, seven ballistic missiles were intercepted and destroyed before reaching their targets. However, parts of the missile debris reportedly landed near power facilities in the area, and officials are still assessing the damage.
The latest strike came only hours after Israel claimed responsibility for a major attack on Iran’s petrochemical industry. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israel carried out a “powerful strike” on Iran’s largest petrochemical site in Asaluyeh. Iranian media later reported several explosions and fires at the facility.
Saudi officials also temporarily shut down the King Fahd Causeway, the 25-kilometre bridge linking Saudi Arabia with Bahrain. Authorities said traffic across the bridge was suspended as a precaution after security alerts were issued.
Saudi Arabia has repeatedly accused Iran of targeting its oil and energy infrastructure since the latest conflict began following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran earlier this year. The latest attack on Jubail is expected to intensify tensions in the Gulf and may increase concerns over oil prices, energy security and regional stability.
