Saudi Arabia Halts East-West Pipeline Amid Escalating Conflict

In a critical move amid rising tensions in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia has temporarily shut down its East-West pipeline following a drone attack that has heightened fears over global oil supply disruptions. The pipeline, which stretches 1,200 kilometers, has been essential for transporting oil from the Gulf region to the world, especially as the Strait of Hormuz remains largely inaccessible due to ongoing war.

The Saudi government confirmed the closure on Saturday, emphasizing it as a precautionary measure after the strike, which was attributed to Iranian-backed militias operating from Iraq. Although there has been no official claim of responsibility, both Baghdad and Riyadh have indicated the attack's origins. The pipeline has been crucial in maintaining a steady flow of approximately 4-5 million barrels of oil per day, accounting for about 4-5% of global supply.

As the conflict escalates, oil prices have surged significantly, with the retail price of diesel in the United States surpassing $6 per gallon. In addition, the situation in Yemen has intensified with the Houthis advancing along the Red Sea and recently seizing the strategic island of Perim in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump, are contemplating their response to the Saudi request for military assistance to counter the Houthis, while also navigating the complexities of potential further military engagement in the region.

Source: www.france24.com