Saudi Arabia's East-West pipeline targeted by Sana'a forces

Sana'a forces have resumed targeting Saudi Arabia's “East-West” pipeline, a critical crude oil transport route known as the “Petroline.” The 1,200-kilometer system connects production areas in the Eastern Region, such as Abqaiq, to the port of Yanbu on the Red Sea.

Constructed in 1981 during the Iran-Iraq war, the pipeline serves as a strategic alternative to the Strait of Hormuz, allowing Saudi oil to be exported via the western coast. The system consists of two parallel lines with diameters of 56 and 48 inches, supported by 11 pumping stations and two pressure reduction stations.

Operational capacity for the line has been projected to rise from 5 million barrels per day to approximately 7 million barrels per day by 2026. The targeting of this infrastructure highlights its role in bypassing potential maritime blockades in the Gulf.