RIYADH — Iranian forces fired multiple ballistic missiles at Saudi Arabia's capital city while high-level Arab League representatives gathered for crisis negotiations, according to Saudi defense ministry sources. The coordinated assault included strikes on a major natural gas processing facility in Qatar, signaling Tehran's expanded targeting of Gulf energy infrastructure.

The missile barrage reached Riyadh's diplomatic quarter as foreign ministers from across the Middle East assembled for emergency consultations on regional security. Saudi air defense systems intercepted several projectiles, though initial damage assessments remain classified. "This represents an unprecedented violation of Saudi sovereignty during active diplomatic proceedings," stated Prince Khalid bin Salman, the kingdom's defense minister.

Simultaneous attacks struck Qatar's North Field gas complex, one of the world's largest natural gas reserves. Qatari energy officials reported significant damage to processing equipment, though production levels have not been disclosed. The facility supplies liquefied natural gas to European and Asian markets, raising concerns about global energy supply chains.

Regional energy markets responded immediately to the infrastructure attacks, with crude oil futures jumping 8% in after-hours trading. "Iran's targeting of civilian energy facilities marks a clear escalation beyond previous military engagements," said Dr. Sarah Mitchell, senior analyst at the Institute for Strategic Studies in London. The strikes represent Tehran's broadest military action against Gulf states since tensions began mounting over nuclear negotiations.