Gulf Bloc Condemns Drone Attacks on Saudi Oil Pipelines

The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jasem Mohamed Albudettewi, on Friday (11/9) strongly condemned the drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia’s East-West Pipeline in the Riyadh and Madinah regions.

Riyadh stated that the attacks originated from Iraq, resulting in several injuries and damage to various facilities.

Albudaiwi described the attack as a dangerous escalation and an unacceptable threat to the security of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, its territorial integrity, and other vital facilities. He also termed the attack a blatant violation of the principles of international law.

Albudaiwi urged Iraq to intensify its efforts and take the necessary and decisive measures to prevent its territory from being used as a launchpad for such attacks. He reaffirmed the GCC’s full and steadfast solidarity with Saudi Arabia, expressing complete support for all measures taken by Riyadh to protect the security, stability, territorial integrity, facilities, and citizens of the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia previously announced on Friday that it had temporarily suspended operations of the East-West Pipeline as a precautionary measure after several drones attacked the oil pipeline in the Riyadh and Madinah regions on Thursday morning.

The Saudi Ministry of Energy reported that several individuals were injured and have received medical treatment. The attack also caused damage to the pipeline. Emergency and technical teams have been deployed to secure the facilities and assess the situation.

The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the drones originated from Iraq.

Riyadh stated it has decided not to retaliate “at this stage” after the Iraqi Prime Minister requested that Saudi Arabia allow Baghdad the opportunity to take steps to prevent further attacks launched from Iraqi territory.

Saudi Arabia stated it supports Baghdad’s efforts but maintains its right to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, security, and infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Iraq has condemned the attacks, stating that its territory and airspace will not serve as a launchpad for attacks against any nation. Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, who also serves as the supreme commander of the country’s armed forces, has ordered an investigation into the attack and directed authorities to take legal action against anyone proven to be involved.