Saudi Arabia’s state-owned oil giant, Saudi Aramco, has temporarily shut down operations at its Ras Tanura refinery following a fire triggered by debris from an intercepted Iranian drone attack, authorities said on Monday.
The incident occurred after Saudi air defences intercepted two drones near the refinery complex, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Debris from the interception reportedly fell within the facility, sparking a limited fire that prompted an immediate emergency response.
Officials said the blaze was quickly brought under control and caused only minimal damage to infrastructure at the site.
“The incident resulted in a limited fire, which was immediately contained by emergency response teams,” the energy ministry said in a statement cited by local media.
Authorities confirmed that no casualties or injuries were recorded during the incident.
However, several operational units at the refinery were shut down as a precautionary measure while safety assessments are conducted.
Despite the temporary suspension of some operations, officials stressed that petroleum supplies to domestic markets remain unaffected.
Located along Saudi Arabia’s Gulf coast, the Ras Tanura complex is one of the largest oil refining facilities in the Middle East, with an estimated processing capacity of about 550,000 barrels per day.
The refinery plays a critical role in global energy supply chains, making any disruption closely watched by international markets.
The attack comes amid escalating hostilities across the Middle East following recent military confrontations involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
Energy experts warn that continued strikes on strategic facilities in the Gulf region may further strain oil supply routes and increase uncertainty in international energy markets.
The situation remains under close monitoring as regional tensions continue to intensify.
