Saudi Arabia has shut a major oil pipeline after it was targeted in a drone attack launched from Iraq, as the widening Middle East conflict puts further pressure on regional energy infrastructure and shipping routes.
The 1,200km East-West pipeline, which enables Saudi Arabia to transport oil without relying on the Strait of Hormuz, was closed as a precaution on Friday following the attack, according to the BBC.
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry said the attack caused injuries and damage, with assessments of the impact still ongoing.
Iraq confirmed that the drones were launched from Maysan governorate, a province bordering Iran, and said it had removed a military commander from his position while launching an investigation into the incident.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani’s office said the operations commander in Maysan was removed after authorities confirmed that the attack on Saudi Arabia originated from the province.
Saudi Arabia has so far refrained from retaliating, with its Foreign Ministry saying the decision followed a request from the Iraqi prime minister.
The kingdom said it would support efforts by the Iraqi government to prevent attacks launched from Iraqi territory against neighbouring countries.
“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia affirms that it reserves its right to take all necessary measures to safeguard its sovereignty and security, protect its facilities, and ensure the safety of its citizens and residents,” the Saudi Foreign Ministry said.
The Gulf Cooperation Council, comprising Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait, also condemned the attack.
The East-West pipeline has been carrying between four and five per cent of global oil supply, according to Reuters, citing ship-tracking companies and analysts.
The latest attack comes amid an advance by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, with the BBC reporting that the group had seized control of large parts of the country’s coastline.
The Houthis have also claimed control of the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a major maritime gateway linking the Red Sea with the Suez Canal. However, the group said maritime navigation remained “safe for all companies except for Saudi vessels”.
The developments have heightened concerns over shipping routes around the Arabian Peninsula and contributed to crude oil prices rising above $100 a barrel for the first time since July.
