Baghdad orders precautionary shutdown and launches security operation as Riyadh suspends key East-West pipeline following strikes launched from Iraqi territory.
Iraq has ordered the closure of the Shalamcheh border crossing with Iran as a precautionary measure following a drone attack on a major Saudi Arabian oil pipeline that originated from Iraqi territory, security sources said.
Two Iraqi security sources told Media on Saturday that the decision was taken after the latest drone attacks on Saudi Arabia. They added that a wide-scale security operation is under way to pursue those responsible for the assault.
Saudi Arabia announced on Friday that its vital East-West pipeline-which stretches approximately 1,200 kilometres (745 miles) from the Eastern Province to the Red Sea port of Yanbu-had been targeted by drones launched from Iraq. The pipeline, which has been used to move a significant share of Saudi crude and help bypass the Strait of Hormuz, was suspended as a precautionary measure. Officials reported some injuries and damage, which were still being assessed.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry said the kingdom would not retaliate at this stage, giving the Iraqi government “an opportunity to take the necessary measures.”
Iraq Probes Drone Launches From Maysan:
Iraq’s government confirmed that the drones were launched from a site in Maysan province, which borders Iran. Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s office said the operations commander in Maysan had been dismissed and ordered an investigation into the incident.
Iraqi authorities have condemned the attacks targeting Saudi Arabia and pledged to hold those involved accountable. Reports indicated that additional measures, including restrictions at other border points and temporary suspensions of certain flights between Iraq and Iran, were also under consideration or implemented in some areas.
Iranian officials noted the closure of Shalamcheh and, in some accounts, the nearby Chazabeh crossing, urging traders and travellers to stay away until further notice. Shalamcheh is one of the main official border crossings between the two countries and a key route for trade, including food and other goods entering Iraq from Iran.
Iraq Under Pressure Over Cross-Border Attacks:
The incident occurs against the backdrop of the ongoing US-Iran conflict that began in late February 2026, which has seen repeated cross-border attacks, disruptions to energy infrastructure and heightened tensions across the Middle East. Saudi Arabia has increased reliance on the East-West pipeline to maintain oil exports amid threats to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
The attack also coincides with advances by Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen that have further pressured key Red Sea shipping lanes, adding to global concerns over energy supply and oil prices.
Analysts and regional observers note that the use of Iraqi territory for cross-border strikes has placed additional pressure on Baghdad to assert control over armed groups operating within its borders. Iraq has repeatedly sought to balance relations with both Iran and its Gulf Arab neighbours while managing the spillover effects of the wider conflict.