Saudi Petrochemical Complex Ablaze After Missile Strike

An attack shaking the Gulf region has once again targeted the energy sector. A petrochemical complex in the industrial city of Jubail, Saudi Arabia, was reported to be on fire after being hit by an attack in the early hours of Tuesday (6/4) local time, amid the ongoing escalation of regional conflicts.

The Saudi government had previously accused Iran of being behind a series of attacks on its energy installations and critical infrastructure since the conflict erupted. On-site sources reported hearing a loud explosion before flames engulfed the facility owned by Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC).

“The attack caused a fire at the SABIC plant in Jubail. The sound of the explosion was very loud,” one source stated.

Jubail is known as one of the world’s largest industrial areas, with various production facilities ranging from steel, fuels, petrochemicals, to fertilisers.

The incident occurred just hours after Israel launched a major attack on Iran’s main petrochemical facility in Asaluyeh. Iranian media reported several explosions at the site.

In Saudi Arabia, the military stated that its air defence systems successfully intercepted several attacks targeting the eastern region. At least seven ballistic missiles were destroyed before reaching their targets.

The Saudi Ministry of Defence noted that parts of the ballistic missile debris fell around energy facilities. “Parts of the ballistic missile debris fell around the power facility, and damage assessments are ongoing,” read the official Saudi statement.

As an additional security measure, authorities temporarily closed the King Fahd Causeway connecting Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. The closure followed heightened security threats in the area. (AFP/P-3)