DHAHRAN / VIENNA — The conflict’s blast radius is now directly impacting global energy markets. Iranian drones struck Saudi Arabia’s massive Ras Tanura refinery, temporarily halting operations at a critical facility responsible for processing over half a million barrels of oil per day. The attacks, combined with ongoing threats around the Strait of Hormuz, have sparked severe concerns over the stability of global oil supply routes.
Beyond the economic shockwaves, nuclear safety concerns are mounting. Rafael Grossi, chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), confirmed there is currently no indication that Iranian nuclear sites have been damaged. However, he warned that the presence of operational reactors in the active combat region significantly heightens the risk of a serious radiological incident.
Regional airspace closures, rolling embassy alerts, and emergency evacuations continue to underscore the growing international fallout.
