A drone attack originating from Iraqi territory forced Saudi Arabia to shut down its vital East‑West pipeline, a key workaround to the Strait of Hormuz blockade imposed by Iran after the U.S.-Israeli strike in February. The 1,201‑kilometer pipeline, expanded to carry up to 7 million barrels per day, crosses the Arabian Peninsula to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, providing a “lifeline” for the Saudi economy. Satellite images from Planet Labs show damage on Sept. 11, confirming the disruption. The pipeline helps Saudi exports avoid the Strait of Hormuz, but alternative routes—such as the Bab al‑Mandab Strait and the Red Sea corridor—are also threatened by Iran‑backed Houthi advances in Yemen and attacks on Saudi vessels. Despite a drop in exports to 3.2 million barrels per day, the pipeline remains crucial for global oil supply. No group has claimed responsibility, though President Trump suggested Iran’s involvement. Saudi officials have identified the drone’s origin as Iraq, and Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al‑Zaidi has agreed to a joint investigation.

The attack underscores the vulnerability of alternative oil pathways as Iran and its proxies expand their campaign, complicating efforts to restore oil flows and stabilize energy prices.