RIYADH: Saudi Arabia defence forces intercepted and destroyed two drones headed toward the Shaybah oil field on Thursday, the kingdom confirmed, as Iran continues its campaign of attacks on energy infrastructure in the region.
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A spokesperson for the Saudi Ministry of Defence posted on X that the drones were successfully neutralized before reaching the facility, which is critical to Saudi Arabia’s oil production. This follows Wednesday’s announcement that previous drone attacks targeting the field were also thwarted.
#BREAKING: Saudi Arabia intercepts a drone heading toward Shaybah oil field in the Empty Quarter, defense ministry says https://t.co/Il7QsmLt9i pic.twitter.com/UHlLbKmifG
— Arab News (@arabnews) March 12, 2026
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The Shaybah oil field, located near the UAE border and operated by Saudi Aramco, is one of the world’s largest oil production sites. Its strategic importance makes it a prime target amid the ongoing Middle East conflict triggered by US and Israeli air strikes on Iran at the end of February, which resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader.
Retaliatory Iranian missile and drone strikes have disrupted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for roughly 20% of global oil supply, causing significant volatility in energy markets.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) recently announced a historic release of 400 million barrels of oil from member countries’ reserves in an effort to stabilize soaring prices. Despite the record intervention, crude prices surged over nine percent on Thursday, climbing above $100 a barrel following the latest Iranian attacks.
The attacks on the Shaybah facility highlight the escalating tensions in the region and the vulnerability of critical energy infrastructure to drone and missile strikes. Analysts warn that continued disruption could have broader implications for global oil supply, energy security, and market stability.
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Saudi authorities have reiterated their commitment to protecting strategic assets and maintaining uninterrupted oil production despite ongoing regional hostilities. The kingdom is working closely with international partners to monitor threats and ensure the safety of its energy infrastructure.