Tashkent, March 2. The Saudi Aramco oil refinery in Ras Tanura, Saudi Arabia, was attacked by an Iranian drone. The strike caused a fire at the facility, leading to a complete shutdown of operations. Ras Tanura is a strategic global energy hub and one of the largest oil refining and export centers, with a capacity of 550,000 barrels per day.

Industry sources report that the fire was quickly contained, with no casualties from the incident. The plant shutdown was implemented as a precautionary measure pending a full damage assessment. Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Defense confirmed the interception of several drones near the site.

The incident triggered an immediate reaction in energy markets. The price of Brent crude oil on the London ICE exchange surged over 13%, reaching its highest level since July 2024.

The escalation occurred against a backdrop of rising regional tensions and Iran's recent decision to restrict shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Experts warn that any prolonged disruption at the Ras Tanura port, which handles major Saudi oil shipments to Asia and Europe, could cause a significant crude shortage in the global market.

Source: podrobno.uz