Politics · India Bureau
Iraq dismisses commander after Saudi pipeline attack probe
Iraq's Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has ordered an investigation and removed a military commander following attacks on a key Saudi oil pipeline that authorities say originated from Iraqi territory. The move comes as the US and regional powers grapple with escalating tensions in the Middle East.
LSN India ·
Prime Minister al-Zaidi directed an immediate investigation into operations in Maysan province, which borders Iran, after authorities determined that drone attacks on the Saudi pipeline were launched from the area. The commander of the provincial operations command was subsequently dismissed, according to a government statement.
Saudi Arabia's Foreign Ministry attributed the strikes to drones originating from Iraqi soil. The kingdom signalled restraint in its response, stating it would refrain from retaliation to allow the Iraqi government an opportunity to address the security breach within its borders.
The attacks underscore growing security challenges along Iraq's eastern frontier and raise questions about Baghdad's ability to control armed groups operating in remote border regions. The incident comes amid broader Middle East tensions, with US President Donald Trump reportedly blaming Iran for involvement in regional instability.
The pipeline attack occurred as Yemen's humanitarian crisis deepens, with displacement figures rising sharply following recent advances by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in areas near the strategically vital Bab el-Mandeb strait. Separately, Lebanon and Israel are preparing for direct talks scheduled for the coming month.