Saudi Pipeline Closure Sparks Oil Shortage Fears Amid Ongoing Iran War

Saudi Arabia's decision to close its East-West oil pipeline after a recent attack has sparked concerns about global energy markets, particularly in light of the ongoing war with Iran.

The pipeline was shut down on Friday due to damage caused by drones from Iranian-backed militias in Iraq, according to Saudi authorities.

Two regional officials told The Associated Press that repairs could take three to five weeks, which would exacerbate existing shortages and drive up prices for fuel and other essentials.

The East-West pipeline is a critical transportation route for oil shipments between the kingdom's east and west coasts.