Iranian conspiracy behind attack on Saudi Aramco facilities: Reuters investigation
An Iranian conspiracy was behind the attack on Saudi Aramco's two oil facilities on September 14, according to a Reuters investigation released on Monday. (Reuters)
Iranian conspiracy behind attack on Saudi Aramco facilities: Reuters investigation
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei gave the order, says report
Decision made after secret meetings involving senior members of Revolutionary Guard Corps
Updated 26 November 2019
Arab News
LONDON: An Iranian conspiracy was behind the attack on Saudi Aramco's two oil facilities on September 14, according to a Reuters investigation released on Monday.
The report said Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei gave the order to attack the Aramco facilities in response to the US withdrawal from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action nuclear deal.
It is also revealed in the report that the decision to target Saudi Aramco facilities was made after several secret meetings involving the Revolutionary Guards Corps in Iran, and that the Islamic Republic wanted to launch an attack that "stopped short of direct confrontation that could trigger a devastating US response."
The account of the meetings, described to Reuters by three officials familiar with them and a fourth close to Iran’s decision making, is the first to describe the role of Iran’s leaders in plotting the Sept. 14 attack.
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According to the accounts, Khamenei's approval of the operation came with strict conditions: Iranian forces must avoid hitting any civilians or Americans.
The Iranian-backed Houthi militia claimed responsibility soon after the strikes, which was rejected by Saudi and US officials, who said the sophisticated nature of the attack pointed to Iran.
When contacted by Reuters to verify the accounts, a Revolutionary Guards spokesman declined to comment.
International brands turn to Riyadh to expand cooperation
Capital cements role as hub at World Defense Show
Updated 6 sec ago
Rahaf Jambi
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's capital is cementing its role as a rising hub in the global defense industry, and the World Defense Show has attracted international brands eager to showcase advanced technologies and expand partnerships in the Kingdom and beyond.
Held under the patronage of the Saudi leadership, the show — which runs until Feb. 12 — has brought together defense manufacturers, technology innovators and government representatives from around the world.
Arab News spoke to several international exhibitors who underscored the show’s growing importance as a gateway to pursue regional and global cooperation.
Among the returning participants is Passtech Machine Tools, represented by Syed Zahid, its sales manager.
Passtech Machine Tools is participating in the World Defense Show in Riyadh for the third time, says sales manager Syed Zahid. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
The company collaborates with various international brands, providing tools, machines and gauges, including advanced CNC (computer numerical control) machinery from South Korea.
For Zahid, WDS has proved to be a strategic platform, and he said: “This is our third time. We see it as very, very useful.”
From China, Jihua Group Co. Ltd. showcases advanced navigation devices and integrated systems. Peter Wang, its senior product manager, expressed optimism about expanding cooperation.
At the company’s booth, Arab News was introduced to several technologies, including what Wang described as a “true-color navigation device.”
Highlighting a wearable system, Wang said it was designed to enhance mobility and operational efficiency.
Jihua Group Co. Ltd. of China, another participant ad WDS Riyadh, showcased advanced navigation devices and integrated systems. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
He emphasized the diversity of visitors and the potential for cross-border cooperation, and added: “I meet different countries’ customers here. I’m very happy and I want to get some opportunities for cooperation.”
Turkiye is also represented at the event. Masttech, which is attending WDS for the first time, is showcasing its products for visitors.
Deputy General Manager Sitki Tuzun said: “We are here to show all our products. We are producing electromechanical, mechanical and pneumatic mast systems here.”
While the company does not yet have Saudi clients, Tuzun made it clear that the show was a strategic leap toward entering the market.
“We are here for connection and new business cooperation,” he said.
First-time WDS participant Masttech hopes to capture a portion of the Saudi defense market soon. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
The World Defense Show has demonstrated its increasing influence as a platform from which global brands meet regional opportunity.
Beyond static displays, the show serves as a dynamic networking arena, connecting manufacturers, suppliers, and defense stakeholders under one roof.
As Saudi Arabia accelerates efforts to localize its defense industry and invest in advanced technologies, WDS continues to facilitate partnerships, technology transfer and international collaboration — reinforcing Riyadh’s emergence as a central node in the global defense ecosystem.
