While the Islamic Resistance in Iraq denied involvement, the Iraqi government condemned the attack and initiated an investigation
US President Donald Trump on Saturday said Iran was “probably” responsible for an attack launched from Iraq that forced the closure of a key oil pipeline in Saudi Arabia. Several drones targeted the East-West Pipeline on Thursday, according to Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry. The attacks caused injuries and some damage, while the energy ministry said the pipeline had been shut as a precaution.
Speaking to reporters in Dublin during a visit to Ireland, Trump was asked whether Iran was behind the attack. “I think they are, probably they are,” he said.
However, there has been no confirmation of who carried out the strikes. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a major umbrella group of Iran-backed militias, has denied responsibility.
Saudi Pipeline Attacked
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Energy said the pipeline “was subjected to multiple attacks” that “resulted in a number of injuries”. It said teams were “taking the necessary measures to secure the pipeline and assess its safety”.
The incident comes as the war involving Iran continues to disrupt energy markets and shipping routes across the region.
Saudi Arabia has also been facing pressure from the Houthis, an Iran-backed group in Yemen that recently seized a key island and a port in the Red Sea. Riyadh has supported Yemen’s internationally recognised government in its conflict with the Houthis.
Trump said he had spoken to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, whom he described as a “good friend”.