Trump Blames Iran for Drone Strike Shutting Saudi 5 Million-Barrel Pipeline

3 articles · Updated · CNN · Sep 12

Several drones from Iraq hit Saudi Arabia’s East-West Pipeline on Thursday, injuring workers, causing damage and prompting a precautionary shutdown of a route carrying about 5 million barrels a day.
Trump, speaking in Dublin on Saturday after calls with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, said Iran was “probably” behind the attack, though responsibility remains unclear.
The Islamic Resistance in Iraq denied involvement, while Baghdad condemned the strike, ordered an urgent investigation and later closed several border crossings as a precaution.
The shutdown deepens pressure on Saudi exports because the pipeline has become critical since Iran effectively shut the Strait of Hormuz, rerouting crude to Yanbu on the Red Sea.
The attack adds to wider regional strain as Houthi forces seize a key island and port in the Red Sea and Washington says it is focused on freedom of navigation while leaving regional partners to lead.