Trump Suggests Iran Behind Saudi Pipeline Attack Launched from Iraqi Territory

US President Donald Trump has suggested that Iran is behind an attack on a key Saudi oil pipeline, which was launched from Iraq's territory. The East-West pipeline is crucial to Saudi Arabia's oil exports and has been vital since the Iran war disrupted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

The Iraqi government has ordered an investigation into the operations command in Maysan province, which borders Iran, after determining that the attacks on the pipeline were launched from there. The Saudi Foreign Ministry blamed the attacks on drones that came from Iraq and said the kingdom would not retaliate to give the Iraqi government 'an opportunity to take the necessary measures.'

The International Organization for Migration has reported that at least 76,000 people have fled Yemen since July as fighting escalates between the Houthis and government forces. The number of displaced people is rising quickly after a swift advance by Iran-backed Houthi rebels threatens a key alternative to the Strait of Hormuz, the Bab el-Mandeb.