ISTANBUL

Saudi Arabia on Saturday strongly condemned what it described as blatant Iranian attacks targeting the Riyadh region and the Eastern Province, saying its air defenses intercepted the projectiles.

In a statement, the Foreign Ministry said the attacks were unjustifiable under any circumstances and came despite the kingdom’s prior assurances that its airspace and territory would not be used to target Iran.

Riyadh said it would take all necessary measures to safeguard its security and protect its territory, citizens and residents, including the option of responding to the aggression.

On Saturday morning, US and Israel launched a joint attack on Iran, claiming it was meant to remove “threats” posed by the Iranian “regime.”

Separate video statements were released by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump, which also hinted at supporting efforts for a change in government in Tehran.

Iran termed the strikes a violation of sovereignty, vowed to respond and launched retaliatory strikes.