Saudi Arabia... The Big One
In a heinous and cowardly attack targeting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Saudi “East-West” oil pipeline, located in the Riyadh and Medina regions, was hit by drone attacks launched from Iraqi territory, prompting Riyadh to temporarily halt the pipeline as a precaution.
Despite the gravity of the attack, the Saudi response was measured and responsible, reflecting wisdom and capability in handling developments. The Kingdom announced that, at the request of the Iraqi Prime Minister to allow his government to take measures to prevent attacks originating from Iraqi soil against Saudi Arabia and neighboring countries, it chose not to retaliate at this stage. Riyadh expressed its support for the Iraqi government’s efforts while reserving its right to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, security, facilities, citizens, and residents.
In Baghdad, the office of the Iraqi Prime Minister announced the dismissal of the commander of operations in Maysan Governorate, after it was confirmed that the attacks on Saudi Arabia originated from a site within the governorate. Additionally, three border crossings with Iran—Shalamcheh, Shuybah, and Mandali—were closed as part of security and intelligence operations to track down the perpetrators, prevent their escape, and disrupt the smuggling of drones through these crossings.
Iraqi authorities discovered drone launch platforms near the border with Iran, according to two Iraqi security sources speaking to Agence France-Presse.
The Iraqi government praised the Kingdom’s position and its responsiveness to Iraq’s efforts to contain the situation. The Iraqi Prime Minister ordered an urgent investigation into the attacks on Saudi Arabia, to identify those behind them and take legal action against anyone proven to be involved.
Iraq reiterated that its territory and airspace will not be used as a launching pad for attacks on any country, emphasizing that its policy is based on respecting the sovereignty of states, rejecting aggression against them, and working to ensure that its relations with neighboring countries serve as a bridge for cooperation and stability, rather than a arena for tension and conflict.
In Washington, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Iran was “most likely” responsible for the attack, confirming that he had spoken with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, whom he described as a “dear friend.”
