Riyadh, 7th April— Saudi Arabia said it intercepted and destroyed seven ballistic missiles targeting the Kingdom’s Eastern Province on Tuesday, as authorities assessed potential damage following a large fire in Jubail Industrial City, one of the world’s крупнейшие petrochemical centers.
According to officials, the incoming missiles — along with accompanying drones — are suspected to have been launched from Iran amid escalating regional tensions. While air defenses prevented direct strikes on several targets, explosions and debris reportedly triggered a major blaze in the industrial zone.
Thick smoke was seen rising over Jubail as emergency crews worked to contain the fire. Authorities ordered evacuations in nearby areas and temporarily halted industrial operations to prevent further risk to oil and gas facilities. Local reports suggested at least one projectile may have detonated near critical infrastructure.
The incident comes against the backdrop of a widening conflict in the Middle East following joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran in late February. Tehran has since launched retaliatory attacks, including strikes targeting Israel and Gulf states hosting U.S. military assets.
Strategic Importance of Jubail
Jubail Industrial City, established in 1975, is considered the largest industrial development project of its kind globally, spanning more than 1,000 square kilometers in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province. It hosts extensive petrochemical and industrial complexes, including facilities operated by Saudi Basic Industries Corporation.
The city plays a central role in the Kingdom’s economy, contributing an estimated 7–12% of national GDP and accounting for a significant share of foreign investment. Alongside Yanbu Industrial City, it underpins the majority of Saudi Arabia’s non-oil exports.
Jubail is also linked to the King Fahd Industrial Port, a major logistics hub with an annual handling capacity of around 70 million tons.
Regional Tensions and Security Measures
Separately, Saudi authorities announced the temporary closure of the King Fahd Causeway, citing security concerns following recent strikes in the Eastern Province. The 25-kilometre causeway serves as the only road connection between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, which hosts the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet.
The developments come as U.S. President Donald Trump has set a deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning of potential military action targeting infrastructure if the waterway remains closed.
Iran has effectively restricted access to the strait in response to recent military operations, disrupting a route that carries roughly 20% of the world’s crude oil supply.
Ongoing Assessment
Saudi officials said investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the damage in Jubail, as well as any broader implications for energy security in the region. The incident underscores the vulnerability of critical infrastructure amid intensifying geopolitical tensions.