Drones Strike Saudi Pipeline, Fueling Global Crude Price Volatility
Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline has been temporarily shut down after several drones struck infrastructure along the pipeline route in Riyadh and Medina regions, causing fresh concerns over global crude supply and energy security.
The pipeline, operated by Saudi Aramco, is a critical alternative export route that allows Saudi crude produced in the east to reach the Red Sea port of Yanbu without passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The 1,200-km pipeline has reportedly transported approximately 4-5 million barrels per day, equivalent to around 4-5% of global oil supply.
The attack is suspected to have been launched from Iraqi territory, with satellite imagery showing smoke and fire near a section of the East-West pipeline south of Medina. Saudi authorities reported injuries and infrastructure damage, while Iraq has launched an investigation and taken measures against military officials.