Iraq investigates alleged militia attack on Saudi oil pipeline
Iraq oil pipeline attack investigation follows Saudi shutdown and militia denials Baghdad faces pressure to rein in armed groups as tensions raise oil risks
Iraq’s government is trying to limit fallout after local Iranbacked militias were accused of attacking and shutting down a major Saudi oil pipeline. The militias denied involvement, while Baghdad said the attack came from Iraqi territory and opened an investigation.
Prime Minister Ali alZaidi ordered a probe into the operations command in Maysan province and removed its commander. The move comes as Iraq faces pressure to curb armed groups that it says should disarm by Sept. 30.
Saudi Arabia shut the EastWest pipeline on Friday as a precaution after a drone attack. Riyadh said the drones came from Iraq and chose not to retaliate immediately, while several Arab states condemned the strike. The situation is unfolding alongside escalating fighting in Yemen, where the Houthis have advanced in the west and raised concerns about shipping routes and oil prices.