Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement has claimed responsibility for a missile attack on Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura oil refinery, raising fresh concerns over the security of critical energy infrastructure in the Gulf.

The group’s military spokesperson, Yahya Saree, said on Tuesday that the strike targeted the refinery in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province and reportedly caused a fire at the facility. Saudi authorities had not immediately confirmed the full details of the claimed attack.

Ras Tanura is one of Saudi Arabia’s most important energy facilities, with a refining capacity of approximately 550,000 barrels per day. The complex also houses a major oil export terminal, making it strategically significant to the kingdom’s energy industry and international oil shipments.

The reported attack comes amid renewed regional tensions and concerns over the security of oil facilities across the Gulf. Any disruption to major Saudi energy infrastructure could affect oil-export operations and add uncertainty to international energy markets.

Saudi Arabia remains a key player in global oil production and exports, meaning security threats against its energy infrastructure are closely watched by governments, energy companies and traders worldwide.

The latest development underscores the continuing risks facing critical energy infrastructure in the Middle East. The extent of any damage, the impact on refinery operations and whether oil shipments have been affected remain unclear as further information is awaited.

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