Iraq-Originated Attacks Target Saudi Oil Pipeline

Attacks on Saudi Arabia's key oil pipeline originated from Iraqi territory, according to Iraq's government. Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi ordered an investigation into the operations command in Maysan province and dismissed its commander after authorities determined that attacks targeting Saudi Arabia were launched from a site in the province.

The East-West pipeline has been vital to Saudi Arabia's continued oil exports since the Iran war disrupted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. International Energy Agency data shows that Saudi oil exports through the Red Sea port at the pipeline's end have more than doubled since the Iran war erupted.

Iraq closed two key border crossings with Iran, halting all passenger and commercial traffic until further notice. The seizure of Yemen's port city of Mokha by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis has raised concerns about further complications for shipping on the Red Sea and increased oil prices.