Saudi East-West Pipeline Shut Down After Attacks, Raising Oil Supply Concerns

• Saudi East-West pipeline shut down after attacks.
• Disruption expected for 3-5 weeks, impacting global oil supply.
• Attacks in Riyadh and Madinah escalate regional tensions.

Saudi Arabia has shut down its East-West crude oil pipeline as a precautionary measure following multiple attacks in the Riyadh and Madinah regions. The pipeline, vital for transporting crude to the Red Sea and bypassing the Strait of Hormuz, is reportedly expected to be out of service for 3-5 weeks, according to an AP report citing unnamed officials. The attacks, which reportedly damaged a 100km section with eight separate hits and destroyed a pumping station, have been attributed by some to Houthi rebels, while other reports suggest they were purportedly from Iraq. This incident is seen as an escalation of regional tensions, threatening global energy supplies and adding pressure to oil and US diesel prices.