Second Strike on the Middle East’s Largest Refinery
Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura refinery and export terminal — the largest oil processing facility in the Middle East — has been targeted by a second suspected drone attack, this time on Wednesday morning, according to Ship & Bunker. The Saudi Press Agency, citing a spokesperson from the Ministry of Defense, confirmed the incident.
Despite the renewed targeting of the 550,000 barrel-per-day complex, the Saudi Press Agency’s report indicated that no damage was sustained during this latest strike.
A Facility Already Under Strain
The attack marks a significant escalation following events earlier in the week. As reported by Ship & Bunker, Ras Tanura had already been taken offline on Monday as a precautionary measure after a separate drone attack earlier that week ignited a fire at the site.
Market Impact: Gasoil Prices Under Pressure
The ongoing disruption at Ras Tanura is reverberating through global energy markets. Ship & Bunker reports that the refinery’s shutdown has become a focal point of oil-market stress, driven by the broader deterioration of security conditions in the Middle East. Gasoil prices in particular have seen a sharp increase, a consequence that Ship & Bunker attributes to the critical role that Middle Eastern refiners play in supplying middle distillates to international markets.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker News Team (via shipandbunker.com) | Article link: https://shipandbunker.com | Published: Wednesday, March 4, 2026
