Saudi Arabia has approached Belgium for potential military assistance following a series of missile and drone attacks launched by Iran during the widening regional confrontation in the Middle East.

Belgium’s defence minister confirmed that the Saudi military attaché in Brussels has opened discussions with Belgian authorities to explore possible forms of cooperation and support.

Officials said talks are at an early stage and no specific commitments have yet been announced.

The request comes after Iranian forces launched retaliatory missile and drone strikes across the Gulf, targeting several countries including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait.

Many of the projectiles were intercepted by air-defence systems, but some attacks caused damage and casualties across the region.

Saudi Arabia has been among the countries directly affected by the strikes.

Authorities reported that multiple missiles and drones were launched toward Saudi territory, with air-defence systems intercepting several of them before they reached their intended targets.

Some incidents nevertheless caused injuries and damage, highlighting the scale of the threat facing Gulf states.

The attacks followed large-scale military operations involving the United States and Israel against Iranian targets, which triggered Tehran’s retaliation across the region.

In response, Saudi leaders strongly condemned the strikes and reaffirmed the kingdom’s right to defend its sovereignty and protect critical infrastructure.

Belgium’s role in the discussions reflects growing international concern about the security implications of the expanding confrontation.

European governments have expressed solidarity with Gulf states and emphasised the importance of cooperation to counter missile and drone threats.

Saudi Arabia has significantly strengthened its defensive posture since the attacks began.

Military forces across the kingdom have activated air-defence systems, increased surveillance of strategic facilities and coordinated with regional partners to monitor potential threats.

Analysts say Riyadh’s outreach to international partners highlights the evolving nature of modern warfare in the region, where drones and precision missiles can quickly threaten energy infrastructure, airports and urban centres.

While the scope of any Belgian involvement remains unclear, the discussions illustrate how countries beyond the Middle East are becoming more closely engaged in security cooperation as the crisis continues to unfold.

For Saudi Arabia, building broader international partnerships is seen as a key element of protecting the kingdom and ensuring stability in a region facing one of its most volatile security periods in years.