Saudi Arabia has temporarily shut down a major oil pipeline after it was attacked by Houthi drones launched from Yemen, describing the move as a precautionary measure.
The East-West pipeline was closed a day after the attack, according to Saudi Arabia’s energy ministry. The foreign ministry said several drones launched from Iraq had caused injuries and damage.
The pipeline is an important part of Saudi Arabia’s oil export infrastructure, allowing crude to be transported to the Red Sea and providing an alternative route to the Strait of Hormuz.
Saudi Arabia has increasingly relied on the Red Sea route as tensions around the Strait of Hormuz have disrupted regional shipping.
The Saudi government said it would not immediately respond to the drone attack, giving the Iraqi government an opportunity to take action against those responsible. However, it said it reserved the right to take measures to protect its territory, infrastructure and population.
Iraq has condemned the attack. Its government said an investigation had confirmed that the drones originated from Iraqi territory and announced the dismissal of a military commander.
The closure comes amid growing regional tensions involving Iran and its allies. Yemen’s Houthi rebels have also stepped up attacks on shipping and oil-related targets in the region.
Saudi Arabia’s decision to suspend the pipeline highlights the growing risks to the country’s energy infrastructure as the conflict spreads across the region.
Pakistan condemns Houthi drone attack on Saudi Arabia
Pakistan has strongly condemned the recent Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, reaffirming its support for the kingdom’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and right to self-defence.
Foreign Office spokesperson Sajjad Haider Khan, speaking at his first weekly media briefing on Thursday, said Pakistan stood firmly with Saudi Arabia and supported efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.
“Pakistan strongly condemns the reprehensible Houthi attacks targeting civilian and economic sites in Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan, and Najran in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” the spokesperson said.
He expressed Pakistan’s solidarity with the government and people of Saudi Arabia and wished those injured in the attacks a speedy recovery.
Khan said Pakistan would continue supporting Saudi Arabia’s efforts to promote regional peace and stability.
