Saudi Arabia has closed a vital oil pipeline following a drone strike reportedly launched from neighbouring Iraq, adding another layer of uncertainty to already fragile energy routes in the Middle East.
The affected East-West pipeline stretches about 1,200 kilometres and provides Saudi Arabia with an alternative route for exporting crude without passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Saudi officials said the temporary shutdown was made as a safety measure after the attack caused damage and injuries. An assessment of the affected infrastructure is continuing.
Iraq Takes Action After Attack
Iraqi authorities have confirmed that the drone operation originated from Maysan, a province located close to the Iranian border.
In response, the Iraqi government removed the region’s operations commander from his position and ordered an investigation into how the attack was carried out.
The development prompted a diplomatic response from Riyadh. Saudi Arabia said it would not immediately retaliate and welcomed a call from the Iraqi prime minister.
The Saudi government said it expected Iraq to take steps to prevent its territory from being used to launch attacks against neighbouring states.
At the same time, Riyadh stressed that it retains the right to act if necessary to defend its territory, oil facilities and population.
Oil Supply Concerns Grow
The pipeline’s closure comes at a particularly sensitive time for the international energy market.
Reuters, citing shipping trackers and analysts, has reported that the pipeline has carried an estimated 4% to 5% of global oil supply.
Any prolonged disruption could therefore increase concerns about crude availability and potentially place additional pressure on international oil prices.
The threat is not limited to the pipeline. Fighting and instability elsewhere in the region are also putting pressure on critical maritime routes.
Houthi Expansion Adds to Shipping Risks
In Yemen, the Iran-backed Houthi movement has reportedly made significant gains and claims to have secured much of the country’s coastline.
The group has also asserted control over the Bab al-Mandab Strait, one of the world’s key maritime chokepoints.
The waterway is particularly important because it connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and provides a route toward the Suez Canal.
The Houthis have said shipping remains safe for most companies but warned that Saudi-linked vessels are excluded from that assurance.
With the Saudi pipeline attack and developments around Yemen occurring at the same time, concerns are growing over the potential impact on global energy supplies and shipping costs.
BBC
