Saudi Arabia has temporarily shut down its East-West crude oil pipeline after it was targeted by multiple drone attacks originating from Iraq. The assaults caused fires and damage in the Riyadh and Medina regions, resulting in injuries. In response, the Saudi Energy Ministry mobilized emergency teams to secure the pipeline and evaluate its safety, emphasizing that further updates would be provided as the situation developed.

The East-West pipeline is a vital infrastructure that transports up to 7 million barrels per day of crude oil across Saudi Arabia to export terminals on the Red Sea. This pipeline plays a strategic role in redirecting Saudi oil exports away from the Persian Gulf, particularly amid tensions between the U.S. and Iran over control of the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi Aramco’s CEO Amin Nasser recently highlighted the pipeline's importance in maintaining oil supply stability during disruptions caused by the conflict with Iran.

Riyadh has chosen not to retaliate immediately, opting to allow the Iraqi government time to prevent future attacks from its territory, according to the Saudi Foreign Ministry. The pipeline shutdown coincided with a surge in oil prices, which rose above $100 per barrel for the first time in months as Middle East conflicts intensified. The attacks add to recent escalations, as Iran-backed militants, including Yemeni Houthis, have increased strikes on Saudi targets, affecting energy facilities and civilian areas.

In addition to the attacks from Iraq, Houthi militants in Yemen have enforced a maritime embargo and targeted Saudi oil shipments through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, aiming to disrupt exports. These multiple threats underscore the growing volatility in the region, posing risks to global energy markets and highlighting the strategic importance of Saudi Arabia’s pipeline network in maintaining oil flows amidst geopolitical tensions.