Saudi Arabia has shut a major oil pipeline after a drone attack launched from neighbouring Iraq struck the facility, raising fresh concerns over the impact of the widening Middle East conflict on global energy supplies.
The Saudi foreign ministry said the East-West pipeline was closed as a precaution after the attack caused damage and injuries, with the extent of the impact still being assessed.
Satellite images also showed scorched areas and smoke around the site.
The 1,200-kilometre pipeline is strategically important to Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest crude oil exporter, as it provides an alternative route for transporting oil without relying on the Strait of Hormuz.
The attack has also prompted action from Iraq, which acknowledged that the drones were launched from Maysan governorate, a province bordering Iran.
Iraq’s Prime Minister’s Office said the operations commander in the province had been removed from his position and that an investigation had been opened.
Saudi Arabia has so far opted against retaliatory action following a call from the Iraqi Prime Minister.
The Saudi foreign ministry said Riyadh would “support the efforts of the Iraqi government” to “prevent attacks” launched from Iraq against neighbouring countries.
“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia affirms that it reserves its right to take all necessary measures to safeguard its sovereignty and security, protect its facilities, and ensure the safety of its citizens and residents,” the statement added.
The Gulf Cooperation Council, comprising Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait, condemned the attack, describing it as a serious escalation and a threat to Saudi Arabia’s security and vital infrastructure.
“This attack represents a dangerous escalation and an unacceptable threat to the security of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, its territorial integrity, and its vital installations, as well as a flagrant violation of the principles of international law,” secretary general Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi said.
The development comes as Iran-backed Houthi rebels make significant advances in Yemen.
The group has claimed control of much of the country’s coastline and said it controls the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a major gateway linking the Red Sea with the Suez Canal.
The growing instability around key oil and shipping routes has contributed to a rise in crude prices, with oil climbing above $100 a barrel this week for the first time since July.
