Saudi Arabia shuts down East-West pipeline after drone attack

Saudi Arabia shut down its major East-West pipeline on Friday after it was struck by drones launched from Iraq, resulting in precautionary closure and some human injuries.

The Ministry of Energy confirmed the stoppage following attacks in the Riyadh and Medina regions, while Riyadh chose not to respond militarily at this stage at the request of the Iraqi Prime Minister.

Built in the 1980s, the pipeline has been vital for Saudi oil exports when shipping through the Strait of Hormuz faced disruptions during past conflicts.