A major oil pipeline system in Saudi Arabia was reportedly targeted by projectiles on Thursday, causing fires at pumping stations, according to a report citing two U.S. officials familiar with the situation.
An initial U.S. assessment indicated that pumping stations along the East-West pipeline were struck. Satellite imagery reportedly showed significant fire damage at one station, while another was seen producing large amounts of black smoke.
One U.S. official said the pipeline was targeted by drones launched from Iraq, although it remains unclear who was responsible for the attack or whether the pipeline itself sustained physical damage.
Saudi authorities have not confirmed that the pipeline was struck or that it suffered any damage.
The East-West pipeline carries crude oil from Saudi Arabia’s eastern region, home to major oil-producing areas, to the port of Yanbu on the Red Sea. The route provides Saudi Arabia with an alternative export path that bypasses the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
