The strike involved two drones that bypassed Riyadh’s air defences and penetrated the embassy compound, sparking a fire that burned for twelve hours.

While early statements from the Saudi Defence Ministry suggested limited damage, current and former US officials said multiple floors were heavily affected, with some sections described as “unrecoverable.”

Among the areas hit was the CIA’s local station. Analysts noted that had the attack occurred during business hours, it could have resulted in a mass-casualty event.

The operation demonstrates Iran’s growing ability to evade advanced defence systems, including Patriot missile batteries guarding the diplomatic enclave.

According to reports, the drones were launched in close succession to maximise internal damage.

The strike is part of a pattern of attacks on US military and diplomatic assets in the region.

In late March, Iranian forces targeted US aircraft at Prince Sultan Air Base, damaging an E-3 AWACS radar plane and multiple refuelling tankers, injuring a dozen personnel. Tehran has also claimed hits on an F-15E fighter jet and an A-10 Thunderbolt.

Despite thousands of US and Israeli strikes, Iran retains the capability to target airports, energy infrastructure, and naval assets across the Gulf in retaliatory strikes.