Satellite images have revealed extensive fire damage to Saudi Arabia's East-West pipeline, a crucial infrastructure for transporting crude oil. The pipeline, which spans approximately 750 miles and has a capacity of 7 million barrels per day, was temporarily closed following multiple drone attacks originating from Iraq.
The Saudi government reported injuries from these attacks, which targeted key sections of the pipeline near Riyadh and Medina. This closure is particularly concerning as it comes amid increased hostilities from Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis, who have intensified their offensive towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, another vital oil transit point.
The geopolitical tensions have led to a spike in oil prices, with Brent crude futures rising 3.4% to $108.17 per barrel and U.S. West Texas Intermediate futures increasing by 3% to $103.07. These developments highlight the fragility of oil supply in the region and could have far-reaching implications for global energy markets and trade