Saudi Arabia Shuts Key Oil Pipeline After Drone Attack From Iraq

Saudi Arabia has shut down a major oil pipeline after drones launched from Iraq attacked the facility, raising concerns about the widening Middle East conflict and its potential impact on global energy supplies.

The 1,200-kilometre East-West pipeline is strategically important to Saudi Arabia because it allows the world’s largest crude oil exporter to transport oil without relying entirely on the Strait of Hormuz.

Saudi Arabia said it closed the pipeline as a precaution after the attack caused damage and injuries. The country’s Foreign Ministry said authorities were still assessing the full extent of the damage after satellite images showed scorched ground and smoke near the affected area.

The pipeline is estimated to carry between 4% and 5% of global oil supplies, according to Reuters, making the disruption significant for international energy markets.

Iraq has acknowledged that the drones were launched from its territory and has responded by removing a military commander from his position. The Iraqi prime minister’s office said the commander responsible for operations in Maysan province had been dismissed after the attack was traced to the region, which borders Iran.

Iraq has also launched an investigation into the incident, while Saudi Arabia has so far decided against retaliating. Riyadh said it would support efforts by the Iraqi government to prevent further attacks originating from Iraqi territory.

However, Saudi Arabia warned that it reserves the right to take necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, infrastructure, citizens and residents if its security continues to be threatened.

The attack comes as the conflict in the Middle East enters a more dangerous phase, with several important oil and shipping routes facing increasing pressure.

The situation has been further complicated by developments in Yemen, where Iranian-backed Houthi militants have reportedly seized control of large parts of the country’s coastline. The Houthis have claimed control of the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a vital maritime passage connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and providing access towards the Suez Canal.

The group has said shipping remains safe for companies except those operating Saudi vessels, raising further concerns for international trade and energy transportation.

The Gulf Cooperation Council, which includes Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait, condemned the drone attack. Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi described it as a dangerous escalation and a serious threat to Saudi Arabia’s security, territorial integrity and vital infrastructure.

The attack highlights the growing risks facing global oil supplies as the US-Iran war continues into its seventh month. With the Strait of Hormuz already under pressure and the Bab al-Mandab Strait facing new threats, disruptions to major energy routes could have consequences far beyond the Middle East.