Drone Attack Cripples Saudi Oil Pipeline Amid Regional Tensions

Saudi Arabia has temporarily shut down its East-West oil pipeline after it was attacked by drones launched from Iraq, amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

The 1,200km pipeline, which bypasses the Strait of Hormuz, carries around 4-5% of global oil supply, according to Reuters. The attack resulted in some injuries and damage, which is still being assessed.

Riyadh has chosen not to retaliate at this stage, following a call from Iraq's prime minister, who said the kingdom would 'support the efforts of the Iraqi government' to prevent attacks launched from Iraq against neighboring states.