nuSep 18, 2026, 14:27

Two Saudi East-West pipeline pumping stations damaged

A drone attack from Iraq has damaged two pumping stations on a major Saudi Arabian oil pipeline, forcing a temporary closure. The disruption has resulted in cancelled oil shipments to at least two European refineries, highlighting the vulnerability of critical energy infrastructure during regional conflicts.

Two pumping stations on the 1,200-kilometer East-West pipeline in Saudi Arabia were damaged following a drone attack originating from Iraq. The incident forced a temporary shutdown of the pipeline, which is operated by Saudi Aramco and plays a critical role in global energy markets by transporting 4 to 5 million barrels of oil daily. This infrastructure has served as a vital alternative route during the ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States, which has largely closed the Strait of Hormuz and disrupted oil shipments across the region.

As a direct consequence of the attack, Saudi Aramco has informed at least two refineries in Europe that their scheduled oil deliveries for next month will be cancelled. The pipeline, comprising eleven pumping stations and two pressure relief stations, has been essential in bypassing regional bottlenecks. With regional tensions escalating and Houthi rebels in Yemen attempting to block access to the Red Sea, the disruption highlights the increasing vulnerability of key oil infrastructure throughout the Middle East.

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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