Saudi Ministry of Defense: Interception of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones targeting Prince Sultan Air Base and the Shaybah oil field

Saudi Ministry of Defense: Interception of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones targeting Prince Sultan Air Base and the Shaybah oil field

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense reported the interception of three ballistic missiles and multiple drone attacks targeting Prince Sultan Air Base and other strategic locations on March 6, 2026 according to reports. The missiles were launched toward the air base, located approximately 100 kilometers southeast of Riyadh, while drone strikes were thwarted in the Al Kharj Governorate and Eastern Region. The Defense Ministry emphasized that its air defense systems successfully neutralized the threats, which were attributed to Iran-backed actors.

The attacks occurred amid escalating regional tensions linked to the broader U.S.-Israeli alliance versus Iran conflict. Similar incidents were reported across the Gulf, including a drone strike on Qatar’s Al Udeid Air Base and missile attacks in Bahrain, which caused material damage but no casualties. U.S. Central Command confirmed Iranian attacks had targeted 12 countries, with regional partners expressing willingness to increase involvement in the conflict.

The strikes have heightened concerns about the potential spillover effects on global energy markets. Prince Sultan Air Base and the Shaybah oil field, critical to Saudi Arabia’s oil production, are vital infrastructure nodes. Analysts warn that further disruptions could exacerbate volatility in oil prices, given the Gulf’s role as a key supplier of global energy.

Arab League foreign ministers are set to hold an emergency meeting to address the crisis, while the UAE is reportedly considering measures to freeze Iranian assets in response to the attacks. The situation underscores the fragility of regional stability and its potential economic ramifications, particularly for energy-dependent economies.