Saudi Air Defenses Down Nine Drones in Iranian Strike Wave
The Saudi Ministry of Defense confirmed downing the drones and two cruise missiles near Iran's key oil export island of Kharg, with no casualties reported. These strikes followed U.S.-Israeli Operation Epic Fury targeting Iran's nuclear sites and missiles, prompting Iran to launch hundreds of projectiles at U.S. bases in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar—most intercepted, though some caused minor fires at the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh and near Dubai's consulate. President Trump ordered insurance guarantees for Gulf energy shipments and hinted at Navy escorts through the Strait of Hormuz to protect 20% of global oil flow, while over 9,000 Americans have been evacuated from the region.