Saudi Arabia Shoots Down Drones Launched by Iran-Backed Militias Again

Saudi Arabia's air defenses intercepted and destroyed several drones launched from Iraqi territory by Iran-backed militias, according to the Saudi Defense Ministry. This is the second day in a row that drones have been shot down by Saudi forces. The attacks targeted petroleum facilities in the eastern region of the country.

The Saudi ministry stated that the drones were 'once again launched from Iraqi territory and carried out by Iran-affiliated terrorist militias.' Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has ordered an investigation into the claims, while the Iraqi military said it is committed to preventing its territory from being used for attacks on neighboring countries.

The Houthi rebels in Yemen claimed responsibility for attacking a Saudi oil tanker, forcing it to turn back. The Houthis have announced a blockade of Saudi shipping, putting another key waterway at risk. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Center reported that a tanker heard explosions while traveling in the southern Red Sea.