Saudi Oil Exports Reach Seven-Month High Amid Conflict Escalation

Saudi Arabia's crude oil exports have reached their highest level since the war with Iran began, despite a sharp escalation in fighting with Iran-backed militants. According to trade intelligence firm Kpler, Saudi crude shipments are averaging around 6 million barrels per day in September, the highest export level since the conflict started roughly seven months ago.

The increase comes even after Saudi Arabia shut down its critical East-West oil pipeline this month following damage caused by a drone attack launched from Iraq. The pipeline had served as a key safeguard for Saudi oil exports during the conflict, allowing the kingdom to bypass the Strait of Hormuz amid attacks on oil tankers travelling through the strategic waterway.

Saudi Arabia had redirected crude from its eastern oil-producing regions through the pipeline to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, providing an alternative export route. The country has since resumed routing crude exports through the Strait of Hormuz after the US military secured a shipping corridor along the Omani coast.