Saudi Arabia Shuts Key East-West Pipeline After Drone Attack

Saudi Arabia has shut down its vital East-West pipeline after it was struck by a drone attack, a significant development that curtails a major alternative to shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz. The Saudi energy ministry confirmed the precautionary shutdown of the conduit, which has recently transported between 4 million and 5 million barrels per day, representing 4% to 5% of global oil supply.

Attack Details and Regional Fallout

The attack on Thursday struck the 1,200-kilometer (745-mile) pipeline in Saudi Arabia's Riyadh and Medina regions, according to the kingdom's energy ministry. Both Riyadh and Baghdad have stated the drone attack originated in Iraq, where Iranian-backed militias are active. In response, Iraq's prime minister's office announced on Saturday the dismissal of a military commander in Maysan province, an area bordering Iran known for militia influence.

The Saudi foreign ministry reported some injuries and damage were being assessed. While reserving the right to take necessary measures, the kingdom has so far opted against retaliation following a request from the Iraqi prime minister, the ministry said in a statement.

Dual Pressure on Energy Chokepoints

This disruption coincides with escalating pressure on another critical maritime chokepoint, as Iran-aligned Houthi rebels in Yemen expand their control in the Red Sea. The developments threaten to squeeze energy exports from both sides of the Arabian Peninsula, a factor that has already pushed global oil prices above $100 per barrel.

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Key developments include:

• Houthi rebels seized the strategic island of Perim at the mouth of the Red Sea in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait on Friday, according to four Yemeni government sources who spoke to Reuters.
• The International Energy Agency (IEA) noted Friday that Saudi crude supply had already fallen to its lowest level in over three decades, partly due to previous attacks on shipping in the Bab el-Mandeb.

Diplomatic and Military Tensions

The twin attacks represent a dangerous escalation amid stalled diplomatic efforts to end the wider regional war. Two sources familiar with the matter told Reuters that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has requested U.S. military assistance in combating the Houthis. Washington has reportedly indicated it would provide intelligence and targeting support but is unwilling to take direct military action at this time.