Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has denied involvement in the March 3 attack on the US embassy in Riyadh, describing the incident as an Israeli “false-flag operation” and warning regional states to remain vigilant against US and Israeli actions, according to newswire reports.

The statement, issued via the IRGC’s social media channels, came as new details reported by The Wall Street Journal emerged indicating that the drone strike on the American diplomatic compound caused significantly greater damage than initially disclosed.

Current and former US officials told The Wall Street Journal that two drones penetrated air defences protecting Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter. One struck the embassy complex, with a second entering through the breach moments later and detonating inside.

The IRGC said it had “no link to the reported attack on US Embassy in Riyadh” and condemned the incident, adding that “Iran’s military targets are clearly defined” while cautioning neighbouring countries to “stay alert against US-Israeli actions”.

Saudi Arabia had initially said the attack caused only minor damage and a limited fire. However, US officials said the strikes ignited a blaze that burned for several hours and caused extensive structural damage across three floors. Parts of the compound were described as beyond repair, while areas including a Central Intelligence Agency station were reportedly hit.

The incident has heightened concerns over Iran’s ability to target US assets in the kingdom. In the days following the attack, several business parks and office towers in Riyadh hosting American companies temporarily closed after Iranian warnings directed at specific firms.

Iran has also continued to demonstrate its reach across the region. In late March, it struck US aircraft at Prince Sultan Air Base, hitting an E-3 Awacs surveillance plane and refuelling tankers. About a dozen personnel were wounded, including two seriously, according to officials familiar with the matter.

The broader conflict has seen sustained US and Israeli strikes against Iranian-linked targets, but Tehran has continued to launch attacks across the Gulf. Iran has fired about 2,500 missiles and drones at the United Arab Emirates, while also targeting energy infrastructure, airports and shipping routes.

Despite advanced air defence systems deployed across the region, all 13 US bases have been damaged or destroyed since the start of the war, according to the reports.