Saudi Arabia shut its main east‑west oil pipeline on 20 April after a drone attack launched from Iraq triggered fires, according to Reuters. The pipeline, which carries crude to the Red Sea, was shut for safety and repair, disrupting domestic distribution.
On 18 April, Yemen’s Houthi rebels captured the island of Moca in the Red Sea, as reported by the Los Tiempos and the New York Times. The island lies near the Bab‑Al‑Mandab chokepoint, a key route for vessels heading to the Strait of Hormuz.
The combined attacks have heightened concerns over the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway that sees 20% of the world’s oil transit. USA Today noted that the blockade of two key routes could strain the global economy, while the United Nations Trade Administration warned that small businesses would feel the impact first.
Saudi officials said they are reinforcing security along the pipeline and exploring alternative routes. The UAE has announced plans to accelerate new shipping lanes to reduce dependence on the Hormuz corridor, as reported by Reuters.
Oil prices have reacted to the disruptions, with Brent crude hovering near $90 per barrel since the attacks. Analysts expect volatility to persist until the Houthi threat subsides or alternative routes become operational.
