Saudi petrochemical complex hit in Jubail after missile barrage

The Saudi petrochemical complex hit in Jubail has raised fresh concerns over energy infrastructure security after overnight missile attacks struck key industrial facilities in the kingdom’s eastern region.

A fire broke out at facilities operated by Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) following the attack, according to a witness. “An attack caused a fire at the SABIC plants in Jubail. The sounds of explosions were very loud,” the source said.

Jubail is home to one of the world’s largest industrial cities, producing steel, gasoline, petrochemicals, lubricating oil and fertilisers, making it a critical hub in global energy and industrial supply chains.

The witness said workers in affected areas were evacuated from their residential quarters as a precaution. SABIC has not yet issued an official statement on the incident.

The attack came as Saudi air defence systems intercepted a barrage targeting the eastern region. A defence ministry spokesperson said seven ballistic missiles were intercepted and destroyed.

“Parts of ballistic missile debris fell around power facilities; damage assessment is underway,” the ministry said in a statement.

Authorities also temporarily closed the King Fahd Causeway, a key link between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, citing security concerns. “The movement of vehicles across King Fahd Bridge has been suspended as a precautionary measure,” the General Authority for the causeway said. The bridge was later reopened.

The escalation follows reports that Israel carried out a “powerful strike” on Iran’s largest petrochemical facility in Asaluyeh, with Iranian media reporting multiple explosions at the site.

Saudi Arabia has accused Iran of repeatedly targeting its energy infrastructure since the conflict intensified following United States and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February.

The incident highlights growing risks to critical energy installations in the Gulf, a region central to global oil, petrochemical production and supply stability.