The US embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was struck by two drones early Tuesday morning, causing a limited fire and minor material damage, according to Saudi Arabia's defence ministry. The attack occurred in the diplomatic quarter, where loud blasts and flames were reported, though no injuries were recorded as the building was empty at the time.
This incident is part of a broader escalation in the US-Israel war on Iran, which has expanded across the Middle East. Iranian drones also targeted an Australian military facility at Al Minhad airbase near Dubai, with no casualties reported. Australia's defence minister confirmed that all personnel are safe.
In Israel, Purim celebrations were held in bomb shelters as a precaution against potential Iranian missile attacks. Meanwhile, the Israeli military issued new evacuation orders for dozens of locations in Lebanon, warning residents to stay away from buildings linked to Hezbollah.
Japan has advised its shipowners to keep vessels away from the Persian Gulf, citing safety concerns. Japanese foreign minister Toshimitsu Motegi urged Iran to stop destabilising actions and stressed the importance of safety in the Strait of Hormuz for Japan's energy security.
US President Donald Trump indicated that retaliation for the embassy attack would come "soon," without providing specifics, and suggested that strikes on Iran could extend longer than initially anticipated.
