Iraqi Drones Hit Saudi Oil Pipeline in Escalating Regional Tensions
Saudi Arabia's East-West pipeline was temporarily shut down on Friday after drones launched from Iraq caused damage and injuries, according to the Saudi foreign ministry. The pipeline carries oil to the Red Sea coast and is used as an alternative route since the Strait of Hormuz was closed by Iran.
The attack originated from Iraqi territory, confirmed by the office of Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi, who also dismissed the commander in charge of the southern province of Maysan. The Iraqi government condemned the attack on its X platform and stated it would prevent similar attacks from its soil.
Riyadh chose not to respond immediately but has reserved the right to take measures to protect its sovereignty and security. Neighboring countries Bahrain, Jordan, and Qatar also condemned the attack, while the Gulf Cooperation Council described it as a 'dangerous escalation' and an unacceptable threat to Saudi Arabia's security.