Saudi Arabia has temporarily shut its 1,200km East-West oil pipeline after a drone attack, adding to growing disruptions to energy shipments across the region. The pipeline had been carrying around 4 million to 5 million barrels of oil a day and provides a crucial alternative route to the heavily disrupted Strait of Hormuz.
The attack was reported to have originated from Iraq, where Iran-backed militias operate. Baghdad has launched an investigation into the incident, while the group accused of involvement has denied responsibility. The disruption has raised concerns over how long Saudi Arabia’s alternative oil-export routes can remain available amid escalating regional tensions.
At the same time, Iran-aligned Houthi forces have tightened their grip around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait after seizing the strategic island of Perim off Yemen’s Red Sea coast. The narrow waterway is a major route for global shipping, connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and providing a key passage for vessels travelling between Asia, Europe and the Middle East.
The Houthi advance has added another layer of risk for commercial shipping already facing serious disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz. Several vessels have altered routes or delayed journeys as concerns grow over attacks, rising insurance costs and the safety of crews.
The developments have intensified pressure on global energy markets, with oil prices rising above US$100 a barrel as disruptions affect both the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea routes. Prolonged disruption to these key waterways could further increase shipping and energy costs and add to concerns about global oil supplies.
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