In a significant diplomatic statement amid escalating regional tensions, Iran’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Alireza Enayati, has firmly rejected accusations linking Tehran to recent attacks on key Saudi oil infrastructure, including the Ras Tanura refinery and Shaybah oil field. The ambassador emphasized that Iran bears no responsibility for these incidents, according to reports from financial news platform Jin10.
Background on the Incidents
Saudi Arabia’s oil sector has faced multiple reported drone and projectile attacks in early March 2026, heightening concerns over global oil supply stability and Gulf security.
- Ras Tanura Refinery: One of the world’s largest oil refining and export hubs operated by Saudi Aramco, the facility was temporarily shut down after a drone incident caused limited damage from intercepted threats. Reports indicate shrapnel from downed drones sparked a fire, prompting precautionary halts in operations. Additional attempted strikes occurred shortly after, but with no major disruptions reported.
- Shaybah Oil Field: Located in the remote Empty Quarter desert, this major crude production site (with capacity around 1 million barrels per day) faced several waves of drone attacks. Saudi air defenses intercepted multiple drones across various incidents, preventing significant damage.
These events unfolded against the backdrop of broader Middle East hostilities, including retaliatory actions and accusations exchanged between parties. Some sources have pointed fingers at Iran, while others suggest alternative actors or “false flag” operations.