Drone Attacks Target Saudi Aramco Refinery Amidst Regional Tensions
Ras Tanura, Saudi Arabia – Saudi Aramco’s Ras Tanura refinery, a critical component of the kingdom’s energy infrastructure, has been targeted by drone attacks for the second time in as many days, according to a Saudi Defence Ministry spokesperson. While initial assessments indicate no damage from the latest attack on Wednesday, the incidents underscore escalating tensions in the Middle East following recent joint US-Israel strikes on Iran.
The first attack, which occurred Monday, prompted Saudi Aramco to temporarily halt operations at the refinery, raising concerns about potential disruptions to global energy supplies. The company suspended exports of liquefied petroleum gas, though local supplies remained unaffected. Aramco anticipates the export halt will last several weeks, and is exploring alternative export routes, including the Red Sea, to circumvent the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran has stated the Strait of Hormuz is open only to Chinese ships.
The attacks come as Iran has reportedly been launching missiles at countries it perceives as supporting US military operations in the region. Iran has also targeted tankers navigating the vital waterway, through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas transit.
The unrest has already begun to impact global oil prices. Brent crude rose $1.11, or 1.4%, to $82.53 a barrel on Wednesday, closing at its highest level since January 2025.
The situation is further complicated by production cuts in neighboring Iraq, the second-largest crude producer within the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). Iraq has reduced output by nearly 1.5 million barrels a day, representing roughly half of its total production, due to storage limitations and export challenges.
Several countries are now actively seeking alternative energy sources. India and Indonesia have indicated they are exploring new supply options, while some Chinese refineries are accelerating planned maintenance shutdowns.
The Ras Tanura refinery is considered the cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s energy sector, and the world’s largest oil exporter is particularly vulnerable given the location of its oil fields and infrastructure along its eastern coast, across the Gulf from Iran.
With inputs from Reuters.