The widening conflict involving Iran has begun to affect civilian infrastructure across the Middle East, with Saudi Arabia reporting the first fatalities inside the kingdom as missile and drone attacks expand beyond military targets.

Saudi authorities confirmed that two people were killed and several others injured when a projectile struck a residential building in the Al-Kharj governorate south of Riyadh.

The victims were foreign workers living in a housing complex used by maintenance and cleaning staff.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, treating the injured and securing the damaged area.

The strike marked the first confirmed deaths within Saudi Arabia linked to the escalating regional confrontation that has intensified following military operations by the United States and Israel against Iranian targets.

Since the outbreak of hostilities, Iran and allied forces have launched waves of missiles and drones across multiple countries in the region.

Although many projectiles have been intercepted by air-defence systems, several have landed near or within populated areas.

Authorities in Gulf states say the pattern of attacks increasingly threatens civilian infrastructure, including residential buildings, transportation networks and energy facilities.

Al-Kharj hosts an important Saudi military installation and has been among the locations targeted during recent attacks.

Officials said air-defence systems remain on high alert as further strikes remain possible.

The expansion of targets beyond strictly military facilities has heightened fears that the conflict could increasingly endanger civilians across the region.

Several governments have issued warnings to residents and foreign nationals, urging vigilance and advising people to follow safety guidance as missile and drone threats persist.

Regional leaders have emphasised the importance of protecting civilian populations and safeguarding infrastructure that supports daily life and global economic stability.

Saudi Arabia in particular plays a critical role in global energy markets, and authorities have strengthened security around major oil facilities and transportation hubs.

Analysts say the attacks demonstrate how quickly modern conflicts can spread across multiple countries through the use of long-range missiles and unmanned aerial systems.

As the confrontation evolves, governments throughout the Gulf are reinforcing air defences and coordinating with allies to prevent further escalation.

The deaths reported in Saudi Arabia underscore the growing human toll of the conflict and highlight the risks facing civilians as the war’s impact spreads across the wider region.