Saudi Oil Exports Under Fire as Yemen Conflict Escalates

The ongoing conflict in Yemen has taken a toll on Saudi Arabia's oil export infrastructure. The Houthis have reportedly launched attacks on an airbase at Khamis Mushait, wounding 13 civilians according to the Saudi-led coalition.

Oman has postponed Gulf-Iran talks aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran attributing the delay to Saudi Arabia's involvement. This comes as Saudi Arabia's East-West pipeline remains disrupted following an attack blamed on Iran-backed militias in Iraq.

Repair estimates suggest that it could take three to five weeks to fix the pipeline, which carries crude oil from Saudi Arabia's Red Sea port of Yanbu to Europe or Asia via the Suez Canal or Bab el-Mandeb. This represents a significant blow to global oil supply, with estimated daily volumes ranging from 2.6 million to 4 million barrels.

In addition to the pipeline disruption, the Houthis have also captured key islands in Yemen's Red Sea approaches, further restricting access to vital shipping routes. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has sought US military assistance against the Houthis, but President Donald Trump has so far declined direct combat intervention, instead offering intelligence-sharing and targeting support.