Trump sees Iran war ending soon after mid-term elections, predicts oil prices will then fall sharply

Saudi Arabia has temporarily halted its crucial East-West oil pipeline following a drone attack. American officials reported that projectiles hit pump stations on Thursday, with satellite images later revealing extensive fires and thick smoke near the targeted areas. The Saudi Ministry of Energy stated that the vital energy route was closed as a precautionary step after suffering multiple attacks resulting in injuries. Teams were sent to secure the facility and assess its structural integrity.

The 1,200-kilometer pipeline transports between 4% and 5% of global oil supply, acting as a crucial bypass for crude shipments usually traveling through the Persian Gulf. Experts note that repair timelines are unclear as technical evaluation teams continue assessing the damage. Investigations confirmed that the aerial assaults originated from outside the kingdom, with Iraq admitting that the drones were launched from the Maysan governorate bordering Iran.

Iraq's prime minister condemned the attacks, affirming "its rejection of any attack that undermines the Kingdom's security and stability or harms the deep-rooted fraternal relations between the two countries."

Saudi Arabia chose not to respond at the time, expressing its commitment to respecting regional stability. Diplomatic communications between regional capitals remain active as foreign ministries monitor border security. Analysts point out that the militant group is challenging dual pillars of Saudi security simultaneously - southern Saudi territory and the Kingdom's Red Sea strategic depth.

Houthi representatives threatened continued strikes until the aggression against their people ceases and the blockade against them is lifted. Iran-backed Houthi rebels have also targeted maritime navigation, warning that commercial use of the waterway may face restrictions.

Energy markets reacted quickly to the reduced supply. Crude prices temporarily surpassed $100 a barrel for the first time since July, driven by concerns about prolonged infrastructure outages and blocked maritime routes. The Gulf Cooperation Council formally condemned the attack through secretary general Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, stating it was a dangerous escalation and a violation of international law.

Diplomatic pressure grew as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman urged immediate countermeasures. Domestic concerns over defensive vulnerabilities were voiced by Amr al-Bidh of the Southern Transitional Council, while the UN International Organization for Migration reported that at least 46,000 people have been displaced across western Yemen, with numbers rising alarmingly.

As economic indicators adjust to energy volatility, international observers emphasize that regional stability depends on coordinated diplomacy and humanitarian corridors.