Iraq Probes Drone Strikes on Saudi Oil Pipeline, Closes Crossings with Iran
The Iraqi government has launched an investigation into drone strikes on Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline, which it confirms were launched from its territory.
The attacks took place on Thursday and temporarily suspended the route as a precautionary measure. The drones were discovered to have been launched from Maysan province in southern Iraq, where Iran commands significant influence.
In response, Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi dismissed the military commander of the province and ordered an investigation into operations command. He also approved a request by Iran to conduct a joint investigation into the discovery of drone launch platforms near the border.
The Iraqi government temporarily closed three crossings with Iran after drone launch sites were discovered in the country. The closed crossings include Shalamcheh in Basra province, al-Shib in Maysan province, and Mandali in Diyala province.