RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has condemned a drone attack on the East-West Pipeline in the Riyadh and Madinah regions, saying the strikes caused injuries and damage while authorities moved to secure the strategic energy facility.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said several drones launched from Iraq targeted the strategic pipeline, one of the Kingdom’s key energy facilities. Saudi authorities said they were responding to the incident while assessing the damage and ensuring the security of the infrastructure.
In a statement, the ministry said Saudi Arabia had decided not to take immediate action following a request from the Iraqi prime minister to allow the Iraqi government to take necessary measures to prevent attacks launched from its territory against Saudi Arabia and neighbouring countries.
“The Kingdom clarifies that, following a request from the prime minister of Iraq to give the brotherly Iraqi government the opportunity to take the necessary measures to prevent attacks launched from Iraqi territory against Saudi Arabia and neighbouring countries, the Kingdom has opted not to respond at this stage and to support the efforts of the Iraqi government.”
The Kingdom reaffirmed that it reserves the right to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, security, facilities, citizens and residents.
Pipeline Security Concerns
The East-West Pipeline was temporarily shut down as a precaution following the attacks, with specialised teams responding to secure the facility and assess its condition.
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The pipeline is a major part of Saudi Arabia’s energy infrastructure, transporting crude oil across the Kingdom and providing an alternative route for exports.
The attack comes amid heightened regional security concerns, with officials monitoring developments linked to threats against critical infrastructure.
Iraq has condemned the attack and moved to investigate the source of the drone launches. Iraqi authorities said steps were being taken to prevent Iraqi territory from being used for attacks against neighbouring countries.
Saudi Arabia said it would continue supporting efforts by Iraqi authorities while maintaining its commitment to safeguarding national security and vital facilities.
