Saudi air defenses intercepted up to 16 drones aimed at the Aramco-operated Shaybah oil field in the Empty Quarter desert. The strategic facility, which produces about one million barrels of oil per day, was not damaged in the attack.
BY PC Bureau
March 7, 2026: The Middle East conflict escalated sharply on Saturday, March 7, 2026, as the U.S.–Israeli war against Iran entered its second week with fresh missile barrages, aerial interceptions and expanding clashes across multiple fronts. Iranian retaliatory strikes targeted Israel and Gulf allies, while Israeli forces intensified operations in Lebanon and continued strikes on Iranian-linked targets across the region.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported multiple waves of ballistic missile launches from Iran early Saturday targeting the Greater Tel Aviv area, central Israel and southern regions including Be’er Sheva.
Air raid sirens sounded across large parts of the country, including Jerusalem, sending millions of residents to bomb shelters. Israel’s multi-layered air defence network—comprising the Arrow, David’s Sling and Iron Dome systems—was activated to intercept the incoming missiles.
Videos shared by witnesses showed missiles streaking across the skies over Tel Aviv as interceptors detonated mid-air. Some falling debris sparked small fires in residential areas near the commercial hub. There were no immediate reports of major casualties or direct hits, though loud explosions were heard across the city.
The barrage was one of several launched by Iran in recent days as part of its retaliatory campaign following extensive U.S.-Israeli strikes that have reportedly degraded significant portions of Tehran’s missile infrastructure and air defence systems.
Saudi Arabia Intercepts Drone Attacks on Major Oil Field
Saudi Arabia said its air defence systems intercepted multiple drones targeting the strategic Shaybah oil field in the Empty Quarter desert.
The Saudi Ministry of Defense reported that up to 16 drones launched in several waves were destroyed before reaching the Aramco-operated facility, which produces roughly one million barrels of oil per day.
All interceptions occurred over remote desert areas within Saudi territory and no damage or injuries were reported at the site.
The attempted attack follows earlier incidents, including the interception of a drone near Riyadh and threats targeting military installations such as Prince Sultan Air Base. Analysts say the strikes form part of Iran’s broader strategy of targeting Gulf states hosting U.S. military assets.
Sirens blared across Tel Aviv and parts of central and southern Israel as Iran launched another round of ballistic missiles, sending residents rushing into bomb shelters. According to early reports and eyewitness accounts, at least two missiles are believed to have made an impact pic.twitter.com/2SPNg7LXSX
— Shogri (@shogri786) March 7, 2026
Israeli Strikes Intensify in Lebanon
In Lebanon, Israeli airstrikes pounded Beirut’s southern suburbs after evacuation warnings were issued to residents in the area.
Israeli officials said the strikes targeted Hezbollah facilities, including alleged command centers and drone storage sites. Hezbollah later reported clashes with Israeli forces near the town of Nabi Sheet in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley.
According to the group, its fighters repelled an infiltration attempt involving helicopters approaching from the Syrian direction. Lebanese health authorities reported casualties from strikes in the Baalbek district, with several people killed and wounded as Israeli operations intensified.
The clashes underscore the growing risk of the war expanding into Lebanon, where Hezbollah—an Iranian-backed militant group—has long maintained strong ties with Tehran.
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Dubai Reports Minor Incident After Interception
Authorities in Dubai confirmed a minor incident involving debris following the interception of an aerial threat.
Officials said the situation was quickly contained and no injuries were reported. They also dismissed social media claims suggesting damage to Dubai International Airport.
The United Arab Emirates and other Gulf states have faced repeated Iranian missile and drone attacks since the conflict began, though most have been intercepted by regional defence systems.
READ: Israeli Strikes Ignite Fires at Tehran Airport as War Enters Second Week
Iran Rejects U.S. Demand for ‘Unconditional Surrender’
Iranian officials rejected a demand by U.S. President Donald Trump for “unconditional surrender” and the replacement of Iran’s leadership.
Tehran said the country’s political system and leadership would be determined internally by its people and vowed to continue resisting military pressure.
Despite significant losses from ongoing U.S. and Israeli strikes—including reported destruction of air defences, missile launchers and naval assets—Iran has maintained a defiant posture.
With missile exchanges, regional proxy clashes and aerial strikes continuing, the conflict shows no immediate signs of de-escalation. The fighting is also raising concerns about disruptions to global energy supplies and the possibility of rising oil prices.
