Saudi Arabia shuts East-West oil pipeline after multiple attacks

Saudi Arabia has temporarily halted its crucial East-West Pipeline following a series of attacks in Riyadh and Madinah regions, according to the Ministry of Energy. The attacks, which occurred on Thursday morning, resulted in several injuries, though those affected were promptly provided with medical care. In response, emergency and specialized technical teams swiftly secured the pipeline and evaluated its safety, following established safety protocols and emergency response plans, in collaboration with pertinent authorities.

The shutdown of the East-West Pipeline holds particular significance given its role as a primary route for Saudi crude exports since the onset of the US-Iran conflict and the subsequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi Arabia has redirected approximately 5 million barrels of oil per day, which would have otherwise been transported from Gulf terminals, through the East-West Pipeline to the Red Sea port of Yanbu.

This pipeline serves as a strategic alternative for Saudi Arabia, enabling the export of crude produced in the eastern part of the country to Red Sea export facilities, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz.