By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Iraq has temporarily closed three border crossings with Iran after drone launch sites were discovered near its border, as Baghdad investigates an attack on Saudi Arabia’s East-West oil pipeline. The Iraqi government confirmed the crossings’ closure on Saturday, while Saudi Arabia suspended the pipeline on Friday as a precaution. The move follows reports that drones launched from Iraqi territory targeted the pipeline, raising fears of further regional escalation.
Saudi Arabia Suspends Key Oil Pipeline
The attack struck Saudi Arabia’s East-West oil pipeline on Thursday. Riyadh suspended the route the following day as a precautionary measure.
The pipeline serves as Saudi Arabia’s main alternative to the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic waterway remains partially closed amid rising tensions between the United States and Iran.
Therefore, the suspension could severely limit Saudi Arabia’s ability to export crude. Riyadh may struggle to move oil on a large scale until the pipeline resumes operations.
A further decline in Gulf oil exports could also push wholesale prices higher. At the same time, Iran could gain greater leverage as tensions with the US and Israel continue.
Iraq Investigates Drone Launch Sites
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi approved Iran’s request for a joint investigation into the drone launch sites.
Sabah al-Numan, spokesman for Iraq’s armed forces commander-in-chief, confirmed the decision on Saturday.
However, the statement did not reveal the number of drones or the exact location of the launch platforms.
Earlier, the Iraqi prime minister’s office said Maysan province served as the launch point. Al-Zaidi subsequently dismissed the military commander responsible for the province.
Security officials also discovered drone launchers around the al-Tayyib border area in southeastern Maysan.
Authorities have launched a search operation in the area as investigations continue.
Iraq Closes Three Border Crossings
Iraq temporarily closed three crossings along its border with Iran. Officials reportedly took the step after discovering the suspected drone launch sites.
The affected crossings include Shalamcheh in Basra province. Al-Shib in Maysan province also remains closed.
Mandali crossing in Diyala province has likewise been shut.
According to Iraqi security officials, the closures aim to prevent suspected attackers from escaping into Iran.
Trump Blames Iran
US President Donald Trump said Iran was “probably” responsible for the pipeline attacks.
Trump made the comment during an unofficial visit to Ireland. However, he did not provide evidence to support the allegation.
Saudi Arabia previously accused Iran-linked groups in Iraq of attacking its oil infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Iran-backed Houthi fighters in Yemen have intensified pressure across the Red Sea.
Houthis Threaten Saudi Shipping
The Houthis have seized Yemen’s entire Red Sea coastline after defeating forces supporting the internationally recognised government.
Saudi Arabia remains the government’s main regional supporter.
The Houthis have since warned that Saudi-owned ships cannot pass through the Red Sea.
The development adds another security challenge for Riyadh. It also increases pressure on vital oil transportation routes across the region.
No Group Claims Responsibility
No group has claimed responsibility for the Saudi pipeline attack.
The Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI), an umbrella group of Iran-backed armed factions, denied involvement.
The group said the attack was an “honour that we do not claim”.
Iraqi authorities are continuing their investigation as regional tensions remain high.
The pipeline attack, border closures and threats to shipping could further disrupt Gulf energy supplies. Consequently, global oil markets may face increased uncertainty if disruptions continue.
