Middle East Conflict Disrupts Global Shipping as Oil Pipeline Damaged
A major oil pipeline in Saudi Arabia has been damaged by drone strikes, causing extensive damage that could take weeks to repair. The East-West Pipeline was built as a backup route for oil shipments from Saudi Arabia in case of disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz, which is now severely restricted due to US-Iran tensions.
The attack on the pipeline and a major pumping facility has largely shut down a key route for tankers heading south to the Indian Ocean. The US Vice President, JD Vance, says Washington is doing everything it can to mitigate the situation, including direct talks with the Houthis.
The Houthi forces are advancing towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which is one of two routes out of the Red Sea and a critical passage for global shipping. The UN humanitarian response plan for Yemen in 2026 is underfunded, with only 20% of the required funding secured.
The conflict in the Middle East is having a devastating impact on civilians, particularly in Yemen where over 22 million people need aid. In Gaza, the ceasefire is under strain, and negotiations continue over further Israeli withdrawal and Hamas's disarmament.