IRGC-Houthi Linked Group Behind Saudi Oil Pipeline Attack

Investigations into the September 10 attack on Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline have revealed that the operation was carried out by a group linked to both Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Yemen's Houthi rebels. According to three Iraqi officials, the investigation found that more than 15 explosive drones were launched simultaneously from Iraq's southern border province of Maysan, targeting the pipeline in Saudi Arabia.

The officials stated that the group behind the attack entered Iraq illegally from Iran days prior to the assault and left immediately after. They also revealed that elements within Iraq had aided and abetted the attackers by providing them with shelter, protection, and routes to and from Iran, evading Iraqi government border checkpoints.

The investigation noted that a well-known militia in Iraq was involved in aiding the attackers, but its leadership claimed they were unaware of the attack beforehand and did not participate in its planning or execution. The findings have been shared with Iraq's Foreign Ministry, which has informed its Iranian counterpart, although Tehran has yet to respond.

The Iraqi officials stated that the investigation is close to concluding and will soon be presented to Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, who will then propose measures to deal with such networks and prevent Iraqi territory from being used for attacks outside the country.