Saudi Arabia says drones from Iraq targeted East-West Pipeline, holds off response

RIYADH — Saudi Arabia announced on Friday that its crucial East-West Pipeline had been targeted by drones launched from Iraq, resulting in casualties and damage, yet opted against an immediate retaliation based on an Iraqi Prime Minister's request. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs vehemently condemned the assault, asserting that the damages are being managed.

"Following a request from the Iraqi Prime Minister to provide the Iraqi government an opportunity to take necessary measures to prevent attacks launched from Iraqi territory against the Kingdom and neighboring countries, Saudi Arabia has opted not to respond at this stage and to support the efforts of the Iraqi government," the ministry stated.

However, the Kingdom emphasized its right to take any actions necessary to safeguard its sovereignty, security, assets, citizens, and residents. Earlier that day, the Ministry of Energy disclosed that Saudi Arabia had temporarily ceased the pipeline operations as a precautionary measure after it faced several attacks in Riyadh and Madinah regions on Thursday morning.

These incidents led to several injuries, and medical assistance was promptly provided to those affected. Emergency and specialized technical teams swiftly arrived on the scene, took immediate steps to secure the pipeline and evaluate its safety in line with established safety protocols and emergency response plans, all coordinated with pertinent authorities.

The Energy Ministry pledged to provide additional updates at a later time. The shutdown of the East-West Pipeline carries significant implications, given that it has emerged as a vital conduit for Saudi crude exports since the initiation of the US-Iran conflict and the practical blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. In response, Saudi Arabia has redirected approximately 5 million barrels of oil each day that would otherwise have been transported from Gulf terminals, channeling the crude through the East-West Pipeline to the Red Sea port of Yanbu.

This pipeline serves as a strategic alternative for the Kingdom, enabling the export of eastern Saudi Arabia's crude to Red Sea export facilities.