A key Saudi oil pipeline was attacked from Iraqi territory on Friday, prompting Saudi Arabia to temporarily shut down the line and Iraq to launch an investigation, dismiss two senior officials, and close a border crossing. Saudi Arabia stated it would refrain from immediate retaliation to allow Iraq to investigate, while condemning the attack that caused injuries and damage.
Iraq’s government confirmed the attacks originated within its borders, specifically from Maysan province, an area known for the presence of Iran-backed Shiite militias. Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi ordered the dismissal of the military commander and police chief in Maysan, and closed the main border crossing with Iran. No group has claimed responsibility, though the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), an alliance of Iran-backed Iraqi militias, denied involvement.
US President Donald Trump stated Iran was “probably” responsible for the attack, while also suggesting the Houthi rebels in Yemen, also Iran-backed, do not want to fight the US and Saudi Arabia and allow most ships to pass. The Houthis have recently seized strategic points in Yemen, including the island of Perim and the port city of Mokha, and imposed a blockade on Saudi Arabia, citing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. They claim maritime traffic remains safe except for Saudi vessels.
Iraq is under pressure from Washington to rein in Iran-aligned militias, with a September 30 deadline for their disarmament coinciding with the planned withdrawal of US-led coalition forces. Kataib Hezbollah, a prominent militia, has criticized the disarmament plan. Left outlets emphasize Iraq’s efforts to investigate and address the attacks, while right-leaning coverage focuses on Iran’s potential culpability. The Houthis and some Iraqi Shiite armed groups are part of what Tehran calls the “Axis of Resistance,” opposing the United States and Israel. The long-term impact of Iraq’s efforts to disband militias, and the extent of Iran’s involvement, remain unsettled as the September 30 deadline approaches.
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