Saudi Arabia’s East-West Pipeline has been shut down after drone attacks damaged the critical oil route, creating another challenge for an already strained global energy market. CNN reported that the pipeline had become especially important as Saudi Arabia worked to move crude to the Red Sea while avoiding disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz.
The pipeline can carry up to 7 million barrels of crude per day. Saudi authorities have confirmed the shutdown but have not announced when operations will fully resume.
The disruption quickly affected energy markets. Brent crude climbed above $109 a barrel on September 14, while the U.S. benchmark remained above $100. Fuel prices have also been rising as supply concerns spread beyond crude oil to products such as gasoline and diesel.
Repair estimates remain uncertain. Full repairs could take five to six weeks, although portions of the pipeline may return to service sooner.
The shutdown highlights how important alternative oil routes have become as regional tensions continue to affect shipping and energy infrastructure.
