A facility used by the Central Intelligence Agency inside the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was reportedly targeted in a suspected Iranian drone attack, according to sources cited by Reuters. The incident occurred amid escalating tensions as the United States and Israel continue airstrikes against Iran while Tehran retaliates against American allies across the Middle East.
Drone Strike Hits U.S. Embassy in Riyadh
The U.S. Embassy in Riyadh the capital of Saudi Arabia was reportedly struck by two drones, according to the Saudi Ministry of Defense. The attack caused a small fire and minor structural damage to the embassy compound. Images circulating online show smoke rising from the site shortly after the incident.
Although the target reportedly included a CIA operational base located within the embassy complex, a former CIA officer familiar with operations in the region said such attacks are unlikely to significantly disrupt intelligence activities.
Part of a Wider Regional Escalation
The strike is part of a broader wave of retaliatory attacks linked to the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. Since February 28, when U.S. and Israeli forces began large-scale operations targeting Iran, more than 1,250 Iranian targets have reportedly been hit, according to United States Central Command.
In response, Iran has launched missile and drone attacks on several countries hosting U.S. forces or allied infrastructure, including the following:
- Kuwait
- Qatar
- United Arab Emirates
- Israel
Gulf and Regional Reactions
Following the escalation, the United States temporarily closed its embassies in Riyadh, as well as diplomatic missions in Lebanon and Kuwait starting March 3. American citizens have been advised to avoid these locations until further notice. Meanwhile, the Pentagon confirmed that four U.S. soldiers were killed in a separate Iranian drone attack in Kuwait on March 1.
Saudi Arabia has publicly called for diplomatic solutions to prevent full-scale war between Washington and Tehran. However, according to reporting from The Washington Post, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has privately expressed support for U.S. military actions against Iran in conversations with former U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Saudi government stated it would take “all necessary measures” to protect its territory, citizens, and residents. Meanwhile, Pakistan warned Iran about its defense pact with Saudi Arabia signed in September 2025. Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said Tehran had been informed about the agreement after recent attacks on Saudi territory.
Dar also noted that approximately 2.5 million Pakistani citizens live in Saudi Arabia, raising concerns about regional stability if the conflict intensifies.
Sources: 24h