The US embassy in Riyadh was struck by two drones in the early hours of Tuesday, causing a limited fire and minor material damage, according to Saudi Arabia’s defence ministry. Black smoke was seen rising over the diplomatic quarter, but no injuries were reported as the building was empty at the time.
The attack comes as Iran continues to retaliate against US-Israeli strikes. In a separate incident, Iranian drones hit an Australian military facility at the Al Minhad airbase near Dubai, though all Australian personnel are safe. Meanwhile, the Israeli military issued new evacuation orders for 50 locations in Lebanon, including two southern Beirut neighbourhoods, warning of imminent action against Hezbollah facilities.
Japan has advised its shipowners to keep vessels away from the Persian Gulf to ensure crew safety, amid escalating tensions. Foreign minister Toshimitsu Motegi urged Iran to stop destabilising actions, stressing the importance of safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for Japan’s energy security.
US President Donald Trump indicated that Washington would retaliate “soon” for the embassy attack, but did not provide specifics. He earlier suggested that strikes on Iran could extend longer than initially anticipated, as the US and Israel continue their military campaign against Iran.
