Baghdad (HRNW)- Iraqi security forces have recovered drone-launching equipment and launchers from the remote Al-Tayyib area of Maysan province near the Iranian border, following Saudi Arabia’s allegation that drones used in an attack on its vital oil pipeline were launched from Iraqi territory.
According to Iraqi security sources cited by AFP, the equipment was discovered during security operations in the remote border area. The development comes after Saudi authorities alleged that drones originating from Iraq targeted key energy facilities in the Riyadh and Medina regions, causing damage to the East-West oil pipeline and injuring several people.
Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended operations on the approximately 1,200-kilometer East-West Pipeline, a strategically important route transporting crude oil from the Kingdom’s eastern oil-producing regions to Yanbu on the Red Sea coast. The pipeline provides Saudi Arabia with an alternative export route that avoids the Strait of Hormuz.
Saudi authorities have reportedly refrained from immediate retaliation following a request from the Iraqi prime minister, giving Baghdad an opportunity to investigate and take action against those responsible. Riyadh has nevertheless reserved the right to take measures to protect its sovereignty, security and critical infrastructure.
The Iraqi government has launched an investigation and expanded security operations to locate suspects. Authorities have also temporarily closed the Shalamcheh border crossing with Iran as part of precautionary measures.
Iraq has further removed the military commander responsible for operations in Maysan province following an investigation linking the drone launches to Iraqi territory. Baghdad has reiterated that its territory will not be allowed to serve as a launchpad for attacks against neighboring countries.
The incident has heightened concerns over the role of armed groups operating in Iraq, although no definitive evidence has yet publicly established the responsibility of any specific group for the attack. Saudi Arabia has previously accused Iraqi-based armed groups of targeting its energy infrastructure.
The latest developments are unfolding amid heightened tensions involving Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United States and regional armed groups. Any continued disruption to Saudi Arabia’s critical oil infrastructure and alternative export routes could also increase pressure on global energy markets.
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