Saudi Pipeline Shut Down in Drone Attack from Iraqi Territory
Saudi Arabia has shut its East-West oil pipeline after it was targeted by drones launched from Iraq, dealing a major blow to crude exports and further threatening Saudi's ability to export oil.
The closure comes as the Houthi rebels tighten their grip on the Red Sea, sweeping down Yemen's western coast and increasing pressure on Saudi shipping. The Houthis have also seized Perim Island, which sits at the narrowest part of the Bab al-Mandab strait, one of the world's most important maritime chokepoints.
The pipeline was targeted in the Riyadh and Medina regions on Thursday morning, resulting in a number of injuries, according to the Energy Ministry. Saudi officials said the drones used in the attacks were launched from Iraqi territory, but did not identify who was responsible.