Shahed-136 drone hits Ras Tanura refinery, Saudi Aramco suspends operations

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, an Iranian-made Shahed 136 drone has hit a key oil facility in Saudi Arabia. The drone attack targeted the Ras Tanura Refinery, operated by Saudi Arabia's state energy company Saudi Aramco. The refinery's operations have been temporarily suspended after the attack.

A part of the facility caught fire after the attack. However, the fire was limited in scope and was quickly brought under control. No casualties have been reported so far, sources said. Security forces have cordoned off the scene and work is underway to assess the extent of the damage.

Ras Tanura is located in the eastern part of Saudi Arabia and is one of the world's largest and most strategically important oil refining and export centers. More than 550,000 barrels of crude oil can be refined here every day. A large amount of oil is sent to the international market every day from the adjacent export terminal.

The facility has modern refining units, large storage tanks, an extensive pipeline network and extensive port facilities for international oil tankers. Given its crucial role in the global energy supply system, tight security and advanced surveillance systems are in place.

A recent spate of missile and drone attacks across the Gulf has raised international concerns. Analysts say an attack on a key facility like Ras Tanura could destabilize global energy markets. Given the facility's role in supplying oil to Asia, Europe and the United States, a long-term disruption could send crude prices soaring.