September 12, 2026

Concerns over global oil supplies have intensified after Saudi Arabia suspended operations of the East-West Pipeline, known as Petroline, following attacks launched from Iraq, raising questions about the impact on global energy markets.

The 7-million-barrel-per-day pipeline was shut down after attacks on September 10. Saudi Arabia’s Energy Ministry said emergency response and technical teams had begun work to secure the pipeline and assess the damage.

The ministry has not disclosed the extent of the damage to the pipeline and its associated pumping stations, nor how long the facility is expected to remain out of service.

What Is Petroline?

Also known as the East-West Pipeline, Petroline is one of Saudi Arabia’s most important crude oil transportation systems. Operated by Saudi Aramco, the pipeline stretches approximately 1,200 kilometers from the Abqaiq area in eastern Saudi Arabia to Yanbu on the Red Sea coast.

Located entirely within Saudi Arabia, the pipeline transports crude oil from production and processing facilities in the east to refineries and export terminals on the Red Sea.

Petroline provides Saudi Arabia with an alternative overland route to transport oil to the Red Sea without having to pass through the Strait of Hormuz by sea.

The pipeline has become particularly important after the conflict between the United States and Iran significantly reduced maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

Pipeline Capacity Reaches 7 Million Barrels per Day

Saudi Arabia’s Energy Ministry said in April that Petroline had a ma

Source: Patronlar Dünyası/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök