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Saudi Arabia shuts down East-West oil pipeline following drone attacks

Saudi Arabia has temporarily closed the crucial East-West oil pipeline as a precaution after a drone strike from Iraq, potentially impacting the kingdom's oil supply.

12 September 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Saudi Arabia shuts down East-West oil pipeline following drone attacks — Archive photoPhoto: Österreichisches Außenministerium · Flickr · BY

Saudi authorities announced the temporary closure of the East-West oil pipeline on Friday. This decision was made a day after attacks on the pipeline were reported, attributed to the Houthis from neighboring Yemen. According to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Energy, the closure was initiated as a precautionary measure.

Reports indicate that the attacks were carried out from Iraq, with several injuries reported. To counter limitations in the strategically significant Hormuz Strait, Saudi Arabia utilized this pipeline, which transports oil from the Persian Gulf to the Red Sea. This move represents another attempt to maintain the kingdom's oil supply amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The drone attack on the pipeline took place Thursday morning, heightening security concerns in the region. Various sources report on the targets of the attacks, while the Saudi government has yet to provide specific details about the responsible parties. The connection between the attackers and the Houthis remains unconfirmed, further complicating the situation.

The state news agency SPA confirmed the closure and serves as the primary medium for official communications from the kingdom. Experts suggest that the pipeline's closure could have short-term effects on global oil prices, as Saudi Arabia seeks to minimize risks from such military activities.

The East-West pipeline has proven crucial for the stability of Saudi Arabia's oil exports, especially during times of conflict and geopolitical tensions. The closure could also influence global oil flows, as Saudi Arabia is a major player in the oil market and is already grappling with the impacts of the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

Amid these tense circumstances, Saudi Arabia has requested support from the United States to protect itself against the threat posed by the Houthis, who may also be intensifying control over maritime routes in the Red Sea. The international community is closely monitoring this situation as Saudi Arabia adjusts its measures to ensure oil supply.

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