Saudi Arabia has temporarily closed a major oil pipeline after drones launched from Iraq struck the kingdom, raising fresh concerns over the security of critical energy infrastructure in the Middle East.
The 1,200-kilometre East-West pipeline was shut down on Friday as a precaution following the attack, according to the BBC. The route is strategically important because it allows Saudi Arabia to transport crude to its Red Sea ports without relying on the Strait of Hormuz.
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry said the drone strike caused injuries and damage to facilities, with an assessment of the extent of the impact still underway.
Iraq has also taken action following the incident. The Iraqi Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that the drones were launched from Maysan governorate, which borders Iran, and said the military commander responsible for operations in the province had been removed from his position.
An investigation has been opened to determine how the attack was carried out.
Saudi Arabia has so far refrained from retaliating against Iraq, saying its decision followed a request from the Iraqi prime minister. Riyadh said it would work with Baghdad to prevent further attacks originating from Iraqi territory.
The kingdom, however, warned that it reserves the right to take measures necessary to protect its sovereignty, oil facilities and residents.
The Gulf Cooperation Council, which includes the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait, condemned the attack.
The disruption comes as security risks increase across key energy and shipping routes in the region. The East-West pipeline has been carrying an estimated 4 to 5 per cent of global oil supply, according to Reuters sources cited in the report.
The latest incident also coincides with renewed activity by Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen. The group has claimed control of parts of the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a major maritime passage connecting the Red Sea to the Suez Canal, while saying Saudi vessels would not be allowed safe passage.
Growing threats to oil infrastructure and shipping routes have added to pressure on global crude markets, with oil prices rising above $100 per barrel, according to the BBC.
The developments could further heighten concerns over global oil supplies if attacks on regional energy infrastructure and major shipping routes continue.
