World · Middle East Updated 7 days ago 2 publishers reporting
Saudi Arabia shuts key East‑West oil pipeline after drone strike launched from Iraq, prompting investigations and temporary halt to exports
News Brief
Saudi Arabia closed its 1,200‑km East‑West oil pipeline on 12 September 2026 after drones launched from Iraq damaged the line, injuring several people. Iraq acknowledged the attack originated in its Maysan province, removed the local operations commander and opened an investigation, while pledging not to retaliate. The pipeline, which carries about 4‑5% of global crude supply and provides a route that bypasses the Strait of Hormuz, was temporarily halted as damage assessments continued. Regional tensions are rising, with Houthi advances in Yemen and U.S. adjustments to tanker protection in the Hormuz corridor.
Key points
The East‑West pipeline, 1,200 km long, was shut as a precaution after drone strikes caused fire and smoke at sites near Medina and Riyadh.
Iraqi authorities confirmed the drones were launched from the Maysan governorate, removed the responsible operations commander and ordered a probe.
Saudi officials said the attack injured some workers and that the pipeline, which moves roughly 4‑5% of world oil, is being assessed for damage.
Saudi Arabia has not retaliated yet, stating it reserves the right to act if needed and will support Iraqi efforts to prevent further attacks.
The incident adds pressure to Gulf oil routes amid Houthi gains in Yemen and ongoing U.S. adjustments to tanker protection in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Gulf Cooperation Council condemned the strike as a dangerous escalation threatening Saudi security and international law.
What sources agree on
Saudi Arabia shut its East‑West oil pipeline on 12 September 2026 after a drone attack.
The drones were launched from Iraqi territory, specifically the Maysan province bordering Iran.
Iraq removed the local operations commander and launched an investigation into the incident.
The pipeline transports about 4‑5% of global crude oil, providing an alternative to the Strait of Hormuz.
Several people were injured in the attacks and received medical treatment.
Saudi Arabia has chosen not to retaliate at this stage, while reserving the right to act if necessary.
Still unclear
No material disagreement was identified in the supplied reports.
Source & attribution
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2 independent reports
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France 24Europe
Original headline
Live: Saudi Arabia oil pipeline shut down after drone attack launched from Iraq
