Drone attack foiled at Saudi oilfield, two killed

Saudi Arabia’s air defence systems intercepted a drone targeting the Shaybah oilfield operated by state-owned oil giant Saudi Aramco in the Eastern Province. Two foreign nationals were killed and two others injured in a fire caused by falling drone debris.

A Saudi Energy Ministry official disclosed the information on Wednesday, October 21, according to Anadolu Agency, citing the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

The official said a vehicle belonging to a contractor working at the oilfield caught fire after the drone was intercepted. The incident occurred outside the oilfield’s facilities.

The Energy Ministry said the incident did not affect operations at the oilfield. Relevant authorities reached the scene and took necessary measures.

The incident comes amid tensions between Yemen’s Houthi group and the Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen’s internationally recognised government. The Houthis have recently threatened attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure, particularly Saudi Aramco facilities, as fighting in Yemen intensifies. However, no link between the Houthis and the incident at Shaybah oilfield has been confirmed.

Source: Anadolu Agency

-AJM