Gulf States Turn to Iran as Pipeline Attack Exposes Regional Vulnerability

Saudi Arabia has shut down its East-West oil pipeline after it was damaged in an attack. According to satellite images from Planet Labs, nine major fires were detected along the pipeline route.

The attack came after Saudi Arabia and Houthi rebels resumed exchanging strikes, which also targeted energy and oil facilities. Although no party has claimed responsibility, a U.S. official said the attack was carried out using drones launched from Iraq.

The East-West pipeline is a strategic export route that allows Riyadh to transport 5 million barrels of oil per day. It stretches 1,200 kilometers (745 miles), carrying oil from the country's east to the western port of Yanbu on the Red Sea coast.

With the Strait of Hormuz disrupted and the Houthis controlling Bab el-Mandeb, Gulf states are seeking alternatives, including talks with Iran. Foreign ministers of Gulf states will meet next week with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Oman to discuss safe corridors for commercial shipping in the strait.