Saudi Arabia says it intercepted drones targeting oil facilities

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Saudi Arabia's Defense Ministry said its air defenses downed three drones aimed at oil facilities in the country's Eastern Province, according to a statement issued Tuesday. The ministry said the attempted attacks were launched from Iraqi territory and carried out by Iran-linked militia groups. The ministry added that Saudi Arabia reserves the right to defend itself and to respond at the appropriate time. It did not specify which oil facilities were targeted or whether there was any damage. The statement came a day after the ministry said several drones originating in Iraq had been intercepted and destroyed. Separately, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Ziyadi ordered an investigation into drone attacks launched from Iraqi territory toward Saudi Arabia. Saudi officials have accused Iran-linked militias of orchestrating previous cross-border strikes on the kingdom. No group has publicly claimed responsibility for the latest attempts.