Saudi Arabia to resume East-West pipeline operations following drone attacks

The East-West pipeline in Saudi Arabia, a critical energy infrastructure asset spanning approximately 1,200 kilometers, is expected to resume operations within the next few days. The pipeline, which transports oil from the eastern regions of the kingdom to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, was forced to shut down following targeted drone attacks by groups linked to Iran. These attacks resulted in physical damage to two pumping stations, leading to a temporary suspension of oil exports to European customers.

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright confirmed the upcoming reopening while noting that the kingdom is working to mitigate supply disruptions. Saudi Arabia is currently coordinating with the U.S. military to increase oil throughput via the Strait of Hormuz, an alternative route that has become increasingly volatile. The disruption has intensified global concerns regarding energy security, pushing oil prices above $100 per barrel. While the U.S. government expresses confidence in a swift recovery, the exact duration of the repair work remains a subject of international monitoring.