The Iranian Red Crescent stated that at least 555 people have died nationwide during the first two days of attacks by the US and Israel, with 131 cities affected. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia confirmed it has suspended operations at some units of the Ras Tanura oil refinery after a drone attack but said this has not impacted domestic supply.
The Iranian Red Crescent Society revealed via the Telegram app that the operation described as "terrorist acts by Zionists and America," which began two days ago, has spread to 131 cities across Iran, resulting in at least 555 Iranian deaths. This figure includes leaders, military personnel, and civilians due to simultaneous targeted attacks at multiple locations.
In addition, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Energy confirmed a fire occurred at the Ras Tanura refinery, located on the Arabian Gulf coast, following a drone attack involving two drones. The Saudi military intercepted the drones, but debris caused the fire, which authorities have now brought under control.
This refinery is one of the largest in the Middle East, with a production capacity of up to 550,000 barrels per day, and is among the world’s most important oil export ports. Saudi authorities have temporarily suspended operations at some production units for safety but assured that local oil supply will not be affected.
Torbjorn Soltvedt, an analyst from Verisk Maplecroft, said the attack on Ras Tanura refinery represents a significant escalation in tensions, as energy infrastructure in the Arabian Gulf has become a direct target of Iran.
This incident is likely to push Saudi Arabia and neighboring Gulf countries to decide to join military operations alongside the US and Israel in full retaliation against Iranian groups, after Saudi Arabia was previously targeted multiple times by Houthi rebels backed by Iran in 2019 and 2022.
The Saudi government has strongly condemned Iran since last weekend, after Iran began targeting Riyadh and the country’s Eastern Province. Saudi Arabia has clearly stated it "reserves the right to defend itself," including military responses if necessary, amid a situation that risks escalating into a full-scale regional war.
Source: AFP