Saudi Arabia shut down its East-West oil pipeline on Friday as a precautionary measure after drones launched from Iraq struck the facility, causing injuries and damage to pump stations.

The attacks occurred on Thursday in the Riyadh and Medina regions, according to statements from the Saudi energy and foreign ministries. Satellite imagery showed smoke rising from affected areas along the pipeline route south of Medina. The pipeline, which runs about 750 miles across the Arabian Peninsula from the Persian Gulf oil fields to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, had been carrying 4 million to 5 million barrels per day in recent months.

Saudi officials described the closure as temporary and said emergency teams were securing the site and assessing safety. The foreign ministry condemned the strikes, which it attributed to several drones originating in Iraq, but stated the kingdom would not retaliate immediately. Riyadh cited a request from Iraq's prime minister to give Baghdad time to address the issue and prevent further attacks from its territory.

Iraq responded by dismissing a military commander linked to operations in Maysan province after investigations confirmed the drones originated there. Baghdad welcomed Saudi Arabia's decision to hold off on a response.

The East-West pipeline has gained importance amid regional conflicts, serving as a bypass for the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has restricted. Saudi Arabia had increased exports via the Red Sea route to maintain global supply. The line can handle up to 7 million barrels per day.

The incidents coincide with advances by Iran-aligned Houthi rebels in Yemen along the Red Sea, adding pressure to shipping lanes and contributing to oil prices rising above $100 per barrel. Saudi Arabia is the world's largest crude exporter, and disruptions to its infrastructure carry significant implications for energy markets.

Iranian-backed militias in Iraq have conducted similar strikes in the past during broader Middle East tensions. The latest events highlight ongoing risks from proxy groups operating across borders.