Saudi Aramco has suspended operations at its Ras Tanura refinery following a drone strike in the area, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The refinery, one of Saudi Arabia’s largest, has a processing capacity of 550,000 barrels of crude per day. Located on the Persian Gulf, the facility was shut down early Monday as a precaution while Aramco assesses potential damage. The sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said a fire at the site was under control.
Aramco’s media office did not immediately comment, and Saudi government officials have not responded to requests for statements.
Following the incident, crude oil prices in London rose 9.7% as tensions in the Middle East escalated. Hostilities began over the weekend with US and Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequent Iranian missile and drone attacks across the region. Analysts said attacks on major energy infrastructure could significantly disrupt markets, with maritime traffic through the strategic Strait of Hormuz already slowing amid rising tensions.
