Multiple attacks force Saudi Arabia to shut down East-West oil pipeline

Saudi Arabia shut down its East-West crude oil pipeline as a precautionary measure after multiple attacks in the Riyadh and Madinah regions, according to CNBC, citing the kingdom’s Energy Ministry.

The pipeline, which has a capacity of 7 million barrels per day and runs to Red Sea export terminals, was targeted Thursday morning, injuring multiple people. The Saudis have relied on the route to shift exports away from the Persian Gulf as the US and Iran contest the Strait of Hormuz. Emergency teams were deployed to secure the pipeline, though officials did not identify those responsible.

Iran-allied Houthi militants have escalated attacks on Saudi Arabia this week after declaring a maritime embargo in July. Oil prices, which surged past $100 a barrel this week, eased slightly Friday.