Saudi Arabia shuts East-West pipeline after drone strikes

Saudi Arabia has closed its East-West pipeline after multiple projectiles struck key pumping stations on Thursday, causing fires and injuries. The 1,200-kilometer pipeline, which can carry up to 7 million barrels per day, is a critical alternative route for Saudi oil exports that bypasses the Strait of Hormuz. Source: CNN Source: Infobae

The attack

US officials said the strikes hit pumping stations along the pipeline, with satellite imagery showing severe fire damage at one station and a smaller blaze at another. Source: CNN One official indicated the attack may have been carried out by drones launched from Iraq. Source: CNN The Saudi Energy Ministry confirmed multiple attacks on Thursday morning, reporting several injuries, but did not identify the perpetrators. Source: Infobae

Strategic context

The attack comes amid heightened regional tensions. Iran-aligned militias in Iraq have previously used drones against Saudi targets, and analysts suggest the strikes fit a broader Iranian strategy to pressure Arab nations. Source: CNN The pipeline's closure is particularly significant because the Strait of Hormuz has become increasingly dangerous due to the ongoing US-Iran war, making the East-West pipeline a vital export route. Source: Infobae Oil prices have surged above $100 per barrel this week amid Middle East turmoil. Source: CNN

Previous incidents

This is not the first time the pipeline has been targeted. In April, Iranian attacks on a pumping station caused a temporary loss of about 700,000 barrels per day of throughput. Source: Infobae In late July, Houthi rebels claimed drone attacks on "sensitive points" along the same route. Source: Infobae