Iraq confirms attacks on Saudi pipeline originated from Iraqi territory and other Mideast news

Iraqi officials confirmed on Saturday that attacks on a crucial Saudi oil pipeline originated from Iraqi territory, vowing to conduct further investigations. Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi ordered an inquiry into the operations command in Maysan province and dismissed its commander after determining that attacks against Saudi Arabia were launched from a location in the province.

In response to the assaults, Saudi Arabia temporarily halted the major East-West oil pipeline on Friday, citing it as a precautionary action. The Saudi Foreign Ministry attributed the attacks to several drones originating from Iraq, assuring the Iraqi government an opportunity to implement the necessary measures. Notably, the Red Sea port at the pipeline's terminus has witnessed a more than doubling of Saudi oil exports since the Iran war escalated maritime routes.

Tehran-backed Iraqi militias have been waging attacks on U.S.-linked targets both within and outside of Iraq since the U.S. and Israel launched military strikes against Iran on February 28. Additionally, Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels have collaborated with the militias to target Saudi Arabia.

Crude prices surged above $100 a barrel this week, escalating Iran's leverage in potential negotiations. Analysts express concern over the Houthi rebels' seizure of Yemen's port city of Mokha, which could exacerbate challenges for shipping on the Red Sea and potentially elevate oil prices. Valiollah Hayati, deputy governor of Iran's southwestern Khuzestan province, announced the closure of two critical border crossings, Shalamcheh and Chazabeh, urging traders, drivers, and travelers to refrain from approaching the crossings until further notice. Authorities will provide additional information as the situation unfolds.