Saudi Arabia Shuts Down East-West Oil Pipeline Amid Multiple Attacks

Saudi Arabia has taken a precautionary measure by shutting down its East-West oil pipeline after multiple attacks on sections of the system in the Riyadh and Madinah regions. The Energy Ministry confirmed that the attacks, which occurred on September 10, resulted in injuries, but fortunately, those affected received medical care.

According to an official ministry source, emergency teams responded immediately to secure the pipeline and assess its safety under approved emergency response procedures in coordination with relevant authorities. The government stated that further developments would be announced as more information becomes available.

The East-West pipeline is a crucial route for Saudi Arabia's oil exports, carrying crude from the eastern oil-producing region to the Red Sea port of Yanbu. This bypasses the Strait of Hormuz and allows for an alternative export route. The pipeline has become increasingly important since the U.S.-Iran war began, with Saudi Arabia rerouting about 5 million barrels of oil per day through the system after Iran effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz.

The attacks come at a time when Houthis in Yemen have threatened Saudi vessels using the Bab al-Mandab Strait, putting additional pressure on the kingdom's Red Sea export route. The incident highlights the ongoing security concerns and challenges faced by Saudi Arabia in its oil export operations.