Saudi air defenses intercept drones over Riyadh, thwart attack on Diplomatic Quarter

2026-03-08 - 03:23

RIYADH — Saudi Ministry of Defense said air defense systems thwarted multiple drone attacks targeting Riyadh, the Diplomatic Quarter in the capital and the Shaybah oil field.Defense Ministry spokesperson Maj. Gen. Turki Al-Maliki said air defenses foiled an attempted drone attack targeting the Diplomatic Quarter.He confirmed that no material damage or civilian injuries were reported after the drone was shot down.The incident marks the second attempted attack on the Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh following a previous Iranian strike that targeted the US Embassy in Riyadh using two drones, which caused a limited fire and minor damage to the building.In a separate statement, Al-Maliki said attempts to target Riyadh using six drones were also thwarted after they were intercepted and destroyed over the city.He added that air defenses intercepted and destroyed Four additional drones east of Riyadh.The spokesperson also said another drone was intercepted and destroyed in the Empty Quarter while heading toward the Shaybah Oil Field.