Saudi Arabia's key oil pipeline hit by projectiles, sparking fires: Report

A key oil pipeline system in Saudi Arabia was struck by projectiles Thursday, triggering fires at pumping stations, CNN reported Friday, citing two US officials familiar with the matter.

According to the report, an initial US assessment found that pump stations located next to the East-West Pipeline were hit, with satellite imagery showing extensive fire damage at one station and a separate blaze sending up thick black smoke at another.

One of the officials said the pipeline was struck by drones originating from Iraq, though it remained unclear who was responsible or whether the pipeline itself sustained damage, according to CNN.

There has been no confirmation from Saudi authorities that the pipeline was struck or physically damaged.

The East-West pipeline carries crude from Saudi Arabia’s eastern oil-producing region to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, allowing exports to bypass the Strait of Hormuz.