Iran Denies Involvement in Saudi Oil Pipeline Attack Amid Regional Tensions
Iran's Foreign Ministry has denied any involvement in recent attacks on Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline, following a drone strike that caused damage and injuries to the region. The kingdom temporarily closed the pipeline as a precaution while specialized teams assessed the damage.
The denial comes amid increased regional tensions over responsibility for attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure. Iraq launched an investigation into the attack, which it determined originated from its territory. Baghdad condemned the use of Iraqi territory for attacks on other countries and dismissed the commander of the Maysan operations command that oversees security in the area.
The East-West pipeline is a critical route for Saudi Arabia's oil exports, carrying around 4 million barrels per day. The incident has raised concerns about global oil supplies as it gives Saudi Arabia an outlet to export crude through the Red Sea without having to transit the Strait of Hormuz.