Saudi East-West Oil Pipeline Operating Normally Despite Earlier Attack Reports

Saudi Arabia’s East-West oil pipeline is operating normally, according to a Bloomberg report citing sources familiar with the matter. Earlier reports had suggested a fresh attack halted flows through this key export route. The pipeline connects eastern oil fields to the Red Sea coast, allowing crude exports to bypass the Strait of Hormuz.

Initial media reports claimed a new attack on a pumping station in Khurais caused extensive damage and stopped operations. However, Bloomberg clarified that oil continues to flow normally. The Saudi Energy Ministry and Aramco did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Oil prices initially rose by as much as 1.2% following the earlier reports but pared gains after Bloomberg’s update. The pipeline had recently increased flows to over 80% of its 7 million-barrel-per-day capacity, with about 4.5 million barrels per day available for export after supplying domestic refineries.

The pipeline had previously been targeted in attacks on September 10, prompting a precautionary shutdown. The latest report suggests operations have since returned to normal despite the earlier disruptions.