Saudi Arabia says East-West pipeline hit by drones launched from Iraq

What the report says

Saudi Arabia said its East-West oil pipeline was struck by drones launched from Iraq, prompting injuries, material damage and a temporary shutdown of part of the route, according to a statement from the kingdom’s foreign ministry and an Energy Ministry official cited by Al Jazeera and the Saudi Press Agency. The government said the drones hit areas near Riyadh and Medina and that the pipeline was stopped as a precaution.

Riyadh condemned the attack but said it would not retaliate immediately after a request from Baghdad, while reserving the right to take further measures to defend its sovereignty and critical infrastructure. The Saudi statement said it wanted Iraqi authorities to take steps to stop attacks launched from Iraqi territory against Saudi Arabia and nearby countries.

Iraq also condemned the incident and said it rejected any aggression that threatens Saudi security and stability. A statement from the spokesperson for Iraq’s commander-in-chief said Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi ordered an investigation into the attack and those responsible. Baghdad also welcomed Saudi Arabia’s decision not to respond at this stage.

The incident matters because the East-West pipeline is a major route for Saudi oil exports to the Red Sea and has become more important as the kingdom seeks alternatives to the Strait of Hormuz. Al Jazeera also noted broader regional tensions involving the Houthis in Yemen and security concerns around Red Sea shipping.