Drones Launched From Iraq's Maysan Province Strike Saudi Arabia's East-West Pipeline

Drones struck Saudi Arabia's East-West (Petroline) crude pipeline near Medina on Thursday, causing damage and reported injuries along the route. Saudi Arabia announced a temporary suspension of the pipeline — its only major alternative to the Strait of Hormuz for oil exports — as a 'precautionary measure' the next day, confirming the drones had been launched from inside Iraqi territory. No group claimed responsibility; the Iran-aligned 'Islamic Resistance in Iraq' coalition said the strike was 'an honour that we do not claim.' US President Trump said Iran was 'probably' behind the attack but offered no evidence. The closure threatens to push wholesale oil prices higher and increases Iran's regional leverage while the Strait of Hormuz remains shut.