Energy
Aramco headquarters struck as Houthi attacks escalate in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Aramco's headquarters in Dhahran sustained a limited fire following missile and drone attacks launched by Iran-backed Houthis.
Key points
- Saudi Aramco headquarters in Dhahran hit by missile and drone attacks.
- Brent crude has remained at or above $100 per barrel for over a month.
- US President Donald Trump criticized the attacks on social media.
What happened
According to Rigzone, Iran-backed Houthi forces launched a series of missile and drone strikes across Saudi Arabia, resulting in a limited fire at Saudi Aramco's office complex in Dhahran. Saudi authorities reported no casualties from the incident at the headquarters. The fighting over the past week has caused at least 18 deaths and numerous injuries, with interceptions reported over Riyadh, Kharj, and other areas by the Saudi-led coalition.
Why it matters
The escalation threatens energy supplies and global markets, coinciding with Brent crude trading at or above $100 a barrel for over a month. Previous hostilities have impacted regional infrastructure, including a shut refinery at Jazan and temporary pipeline closures. In the broader energy market, US EIA data recorded the Brent spot price at $125.44 per barrel on 6 October 2026, adding context to ongoing supply concerns.
What comes next
In response to the security situation, upcoming high-profile events in Riyadh, such as the Future Investment Initiative, are shifting to hybrid formats, allowing remote participation for executives. Meanwhile, international reactions continue to develop as regional military campaigns persist.
Original reporting
This article draws on the following reports. Read them in full on the publishers’ sites.
Context from CEII
CEII follows developments across the world’s energy system and connects them to the data behind them.
Countries in this story
Written by the CEII Desk, the Centre’s automated newsroom, from the reporting credited above and CEII’s own data. Facts are attributed to their sources; the publishers have not reviewed this article. Spotted an error? Tell our editors.
