Iraqi Drone Attacks Force Saudi Pipeline Shutdown Amid Rising Tensions

Saudi Arabia's vital East-West oil pipeline was temporarily halted following drone strikes reportedly launched from Iraq, prompting a wave of condemnation from Riyadh and its regional allies. The attacks come as the kingdom has increasingly relied on this route to export oil amid ongoing tensions in the region.

The Saudi foreign ministry issued a statement denouncing the drone strikes, which targeted the pipeline serving the Riyadh and Medina regions, stating that they caused both injuries and property damage. An official from the energy ministry confirmed the temporary closure of the pipeline as a precautionary measure.

In a related development, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi acknowledged the origin of the drone attacks and announced the dismissal of the commander responsible for the southern province of Maysan. The Iraqi government condemned the assaults, expressing solidarity with Saudi Arabia, while Riyadh opted not to retaliate at this time, aligning with the Iraqi government's efforts to curb further violence.

Source: www.dawn.com