Saudi Arabia Temporarily Suspends Key Oil Pipeline After Recent Attacks

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended operations on its major East-West oil pipeline following attacks in the Riyadh and Madinah regions, according to the Saudi Ministry of Energy.

The ministry said the pipeline, which allows Saudi Arabia to export crude while bypassing the Strait of Hormuz, was suspended as a precaution after a series of attacks.

In a statement posted on X, the Saudi Ministry of Energy said the East-West pipeline was temporarily shut down as a security measure.

According to the ministry, the pipeline was targeted on Thursday morning, resulting in several people being injured.

The East-West pipeline is strategically important for Saudi Arabia because it transports crude from the Kingdom’s eastern oil-producing region to the Red Sea, providing an alternative export route that does not rely on the Strait of Hormuz.

The temporary suspension could therefore create additional concerns for regional oil shipments at a time when energy markets are already under pressure.

The pipeline closure comes amid a rapidly deteriorating security situation along the Red Sea.

Reports indicate that the Houthi militia has made rapid advances in Yemen and taken control of large sections of the country’s Red Sea coastline.

The developments have raised concerns over the security of important maritime routes and energy infrastructure in the region.

The latest attack and pipeline suspension come as tensions continue to affect oil transportation routes across the Middle East.

Saudi Arabia’s East-West pipeline serves as an important alternative to maritime routes through the Strait of Hormuz, meaning prolonged disruption could further complicate regional energy exports.

Any continued attacks on oil infrastructure or shipping routes could increase pressure on global crude supplies and contribute to further volatility in international oil prices.

Saudi authorities have not indicated how long the pipeline suspension will remain in effect or when normal operations will resume.