US Embassy in Riyadh hit by drones and fires, ministry reports incident

Saudi Ministry of Defence Reports Drone Attack on US Embassy, Diplomatic Compound Sustains Minor Damage

A fire broke out at the US Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, following a drone attack early on Tuesday. The Saudi Ministry of Defence stated that two drones were intercepted by air defences before they reached their target, and a “limited fire” occurred at the diplomatic compound.

According to the Ministry’s statement, the damage sustained by the embassy was described as “minor material”. However, reports from multiple sources indicated that black smoke was seen rising over Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, where foreign missions are located. Three individuals confirmed hearing a loud blast and seeing flames at the embassy, although one source disputed the severity of the fire.

The embassy building was reportedly empty at the time of the attack, with no reported casualties. The Saudi Defence Ministry stated that air defences had intercepted four drones targeting Riyadh’s diplomatic quarter in the attack.

US President Donald Trump made a statement regarding the incident, saying “You’ll find out soon” about the US response to the attack and the killing of four American service members. Earlier on Tuesday, the US Embassy issued a “shelter in place” notice to US citizens in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dhahran amid the attacks.

The situation is being closely monitored by the US Mission to Saudi Arabia, which continues to monitor the regional situation.

Source: Al Jazeera