The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement condemning what it described as a “cowardly” Iranian attack. Targeting the US Embassy in RiyadhAs regional tensions continue to escalate.
In a statement issued on March 3, 2026, the Kingdom expressed its “strongest rejection and condemnation” of the decision. Attack on the American diplomatic compoundStressing that such actions violate international law and diplomatic agreements, including the Vienna Conventions of 1949 and 1961, which grant immunity to diplomatic missions even during armed conflicts.
The statement affirmed Saudi Arabia’s right to take all necessary measures to protect its lands, citizens, residents, and vital interests, “including the option of responding to the aggression.”
Drones intercepted near Riyadh
The Ministry of Defense previously confirmed that two drones targeted the US Embassy in Riyadh, causing a limited fire and minor material damage. No injuries were reported.
Later Saudi reports indicated that air defenses intercepted additional drones near Riyadh and Al-Kharj, indicating continued attempts to strike targets within the central region of the Kingdom.
The current escalation dates back to late February 2026, when the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes inside Iran, targeting what they described as strategic military and security infrastructure. The strikes resulted in the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
In response, Iran began a series of retaliatory actions across the region, including launching drones and missiles targeting military and diplomatic sites associated with the US presence and its allies.
Since then, multiple countries in the Middle East have reported interceptions of projectiles, temporary closures of airspace, and heightened security measures.
Airlines have suspended their routesEmbassies issued shelter-in-place warnings, and energy infrastructure was placed under enhanced protection.
The expansion of the conflict has increased fears that it may develop into a long-term regional confrontation rather than a limited exchange.
