World · India Bureau
Saudi oil pipeline expected back online within days, says US energy chief
The critical East-West Pipeline, which has been the primary conduit for Middle Eastern crude supplies globally over the past six months, is expected to resume operations imminently. The 1,200-kilometre infrastructure crosses the Arabian Peninsula and is vital to international energy markets.
LSN India ·
A senior US energy official expressed confidence that Saudi Arabia's crucial East-West Pipeline would return to full operation within the coming days. The official did not specify the exact nature or duration of the current disruption affecting the critical infrastructure.
The 1,200-kilometre pipeline traversing the Arabian Peninsula has functioned as the primary export route for Middle Eastern crude supplies to global markets over the past six months. The corridor's operational status holds significant implications for international oil prices and energy security, particularly for Asian markets heavily dependent on Middle Eastern petroleum imports.
The anticipated resumption comes as energy markets remain sensitive to supply disruptions in the region. Saudi Arabia's oil infrastructure has periodically faced operational challenges, and any extended downtime typically triggers fluctuations in global energy costs.
Indian refineries and importers, which rely substantially on Saudi crude supplies, have been monitoring the situation closely. The pipeline's restoration would help stabilise supply chains and potentially ease pressure on international oil benchmarks that have influenced domestic fuel prices.