Iraqi Drones Force Saudi Oil Pipeline Shutdown Amid Rising Fuel Prices

Saudi Arabia's oil export pipeline was temporarily shut down due to drone attacks from Iraq on September 11. The East-West pipeline, which links Abqaiq near the Gulf to the port of Yanbu on the Red Sea, was targeted by several drones coming from Iraq, causing human injuries and damage.

The Saudi foreign ministry condemned the attack, saying that it had chosen not to respond at this stage and instead support the efforts of the Iraqi government to prevent such attacks. The kingdom reserves the right to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, security, facilities, and people.

Following the attack, oil prices climbed past $100 a barrel, while US diesel prices topped $6 for the first time on September 11. This development is seen as a potential headache for President Donald Trump ahead of midterm elections.