Iraq Confirms Saudi Pipeline Attacks Originated From Its Territory

Iraq’s government said Saturday that attacks on a critical Saudi oil pipeline were launched from Iraqi territory, and vowed to investigate the incident further.

Iraq also closed two major crossings along its border with Iran, suspending all passenger and commercial movement until further notice, according to Iran’s state-run media.

Concerns are also growing that oil and gas prices could climb and global shipping face additional disruption after Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels seized a strategic island and took control of a Red Sea port.

Here is the latest news from across the Middle East. Full coverage can be found here.

Iraq removes commander after attacks on Saudi Arabia

Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi ordered an inquiry into the operations command in Maysan province and dismissed its commander after officials concluded that attacks targeting Saudi Arabia had been launched from a location in the province, the Iraqi government said in an early Saturday statement.

Saudi Arabia halted operations on the major cross-country oil pipeline Friday, describing the move as a “precautionary measure.”

The Saudi Foreign Ministry said several drones originating from Iraq were responsible for the attacks. In a statement, it said the kingdom would hold off on retaliation to give Iraq’s government “an opportunity to take the necessary measures.”

The East-West pipeline has become essential to Saudi Arabia’s oil exports since the Iran war disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The International Energy Agency says Saudi oil exports leaving from the Red Sea port at the pipeline’s terminus have more than doubled since the war in Iran began.

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Iran-backed Iraqi militias have carried out attacks on U.S.-linked targets in Iraq and abroad since the United States and Israel attacked Iran on Feb. 28. They have also coordinated with Yemen’s Houthi rebels in attacks on Saudi Arabia.

Crude prices this week soared again above $100 a barrel, giving Tehran more leverage in any talks. Analysts worry that the Houthis’ seizure of Yemen’s port city of Mokha may create further complications for shipping on the Red Sea and raise oil prices.

Iraq closes two border crossings with Iran

Valiollah Hayati, the deputy governor of Iran’s southwestern Khuzestan province, said Iraqi officials had announced the closure of the Shalamcheh and Chazabeh crossings.

Hayati urged traders, drivers and travelers not to approach the crossings until further notice. He said relevant authorities would release additional information.

Shalamcheh and Chazabeh are among the main official border crossings between Iran and Iraq.

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This report will be updated throughout the day as new developments emerge.