Drones struck the United States Embassy in Riyadh on Tuesday, as Iran retaliated against industrial and diplomatic targets across the Middle East amid escalating regional tensions.

The attack comes four days after coordinated US and Israeli strikes reportedly killed Iran’s supreme leader, triggering a widening conflict in the region.

AFP reporters in the Saudi capital observed smoke damage on the walls and roof of the US embassy building. Saudi security forces cordoned off the diplomatic quarter, mounted heavy patrols, and conducted identity checks, while several roads leading to the embassy were blocked.

The United States had on Monday urged its citizens to leave the Middle East immediately, citing “serious safety risks.”

Meanwhile, powerful explosions were reported overnight in Tehran, with fighter jets flying over the Iranian capital as tensions intensified. US President Donald Trump has threatened further escalation if attacks continue.

In Lebanon, Israel said it was taking new forward positions in the south after Hezbollah launched missiles in support of Iran. The Israeli bombardment that followed marked a sharp escalation along the border.

Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israeli forces had been authorised “to advance and take control of additional strategic positions in Lebanon in order to prevent attacks on Israeli border communities.”

The latest developments signal a deepening regional confrontation, raising fears of a broader Middle East war.