By Tannistha Dey
Saudi Arabia has temporarily shut its major East-West oil pipeline after a drone attack launched from Iraq, adding to concerns over energy security as conflict continues to spread across the Middle East.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry said the pipeline was closed as a precaution after the attack caused injuries and damage. Authorities were assessing the extent of the damage, while satellite images showed smoke and scorched ground near the site.
Iraq confirmed that the drones had been launched from Maysan province, which borders Iran. The Iraqi government said the province’s operations commander had been removed from his post and an investigation had been ordered into the attack.
The 1,200-km pipeline is strategically important to Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest crude oil exporter, as it provides an alternative route for transporting oil without relying on the Strait of Hormuz. Reuters, citing analysts and ship-tracking companies, reported that the pipeline handles around 4% to 5% of global oil supplies.
Riyadh has not announced any immediate retaliation. Saudi Arabia said it would support Iraq’s efforts to prevent attacks from its territory against neighbouring countries, while reserving the right to take measures to protect its sovereignty and critical infrastructure.
The Gulf Cooperation Council also condemned the attack, describing it as a scenario escalation and a threat to Saudi Arabia’s security.
The incident comes as Iran-backed Houthi rebels have expanded their control along Yemen’s Red Sea coast. The group recently seized the strategic port city of Mokha and claimed control of the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a major route linking the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden.
Saudi-backed Yemeni forces have responded with strikes on Houthi positions. The escalation has displaced at least 76,000 people in Yemen since July, according to the United Nations.
The developments have also pushed crude oil prices above $100 a barrel, with analysts warning that prolonged instability could drive prices even higher.
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