Saudi Arabia Temporarily Suspends East-West Oil Pipeline After Drone Attacks
RIYADH:Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended operations on its East-West oil pipeline after multiple drone attacks targeted areas in Riyadh and Madinah, according to Saudi authorities.
The Saudi Ministry of Energy said the East-West pipeline, which allows the kingdom to transport and export oil while bypassing the Strait of Hormuz, had been temporarily shut down as a precaution following the attacks.
In a statement posted on X, the ministry said the suspension was a preventive measure to ensure safety and protect the pipeline’s operations.
According to the Saudi Ministry of Energy, the pipeline was targeted on Thursday morning, resulting in several people being injured.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry said the attacks on the pipeline were carried out by drones launched from Iraq. It added that Saudi Arabia had decided not to retaliate for the time being following a request from the Iraqi prime minister.
The ministry said Saudi Arabia reserved the right to take necessary measures to protect its sovereignty and the safety of its citizens.
The development comes amid escalating tensions in the region and reports of intensified Houthi operations in Yemen. The Houthis have reportedly expanded their control along Yemen’s Red Sea coastline, further raising concerns over regional security and energy supplies.
