Saudi Oil Exports Resume Through East-West Pipeline
Saudi Arabia has restored oil exports through its East-West pipeline after temporarily halting shipments due to drone attacks from Iraq. The pipeline, which connects the east and west of the kingdom, was closed on September 11 when Saudi authorities said drones launched from Iraq led to the closure.
According to Bloomberg, state-run Saudi Aramco had been testing the pipeline and building pressure in an effort to resume exports by the weekend. People familiar with the matter confirmed that the goal was to restore meaningful flows through the alternative export route.
The resumption of oil shipments via the East-West pipeline will bring relief to buyers who have been clamoring for supply, particularly those in Europe who were told they wouldn't receive any barrels next month under term contracts. The move also highlights Saudi Arabia's efforts to maintain its access to various export routes despite security concerns.