Saudi Arabia restores east-west pipeline to full capacity after regional attacks

Saudi Arabia's energy ministry announced the restoration of full pumping capacity to its east-west pipeline, which transports approximately seven million barrels of oil per day to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz. The pipeline had been affected by attacks during the US-Israeli military operations against Iran. The restoration is significant for global oil markets, as the pipeline serves as a critical alternative route when the Strait of Hormuz—through which roughly 20% of the world's oil passes—is threatened or closed. The announcement reflects broader regional tensions and the vulnerability of Middle Eastern energy infrastructure to military disruption.