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    Drone Attacks on Saudi Pipeline Trigger Oil Price Surge Above $109

    Section editor: ·Low3 articles covering this·3 news sources·Updated 2 hours ago·MENA
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    A graph depicting the rise in oil prices alongside a map of the Middle East highlighting the East-West Pipeline.

    What happened

    On September 13-14, 2026, oil prices surged above $109 per barrel due to drone attacks that forced the shutdown of Saudi Arabia's East-West Pipeline.

    The Context

    • Escalating tensions: The attacks are part of a broader conflict in the Middle East involving Iran-backed groups, which has already disrupted normal export pathways.
    • Critical infrastructure: The East-West Pipeline was a vital workaround for bypassing the heavily trafficked Strait of Hormuz, where shipping has been significantly affected.
    • Market reactions: Oil benchmarks Brent and WTI saw sharp increases, with Brent nearing $110, reflecting heightened supply concerns.

    The Number

    4%

    of the global oil supply is potentially at risk from a prolonged East-West Pipeline outage, which could lead to further price increases and supply chain disruptions.

    Takeaway

    If the pipeline remains offline for more than a week, expect continued upward pressure on oil prices and potential ripple effects across various sectors.

    3 Articles
    The Wall Street Journal

    Oil Prices Rise as Middle East Supply Concerns Persist

    Oil prices have surged to four-month highs due to the shutdown of Saudi Arabia's East-West Pipeline and ongoing threats from Houthi militants against shipping in the Red Sea. This situation has heightened concerns regarding the stability of oil suppl...

    11 hours ago
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    The New York Times

    Oil Prices Jump as Attacks Choke Off Saudi Energy Supply

    Oil prices surged following a drone attack on a critical pipeline in Saudi Arabia, raising concerns about potential disruptions to energy supplies from the Persian Gulf. This incident has led traders to sell oil futures, reflecting heightened anxiety...

    Investing.com

    Oil prices jump more than $3 after new strikes on Saudi, Strait of Hormuz

    Oil prices surged by more than $3 following new strikes on Saudi Arabia and the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime corridor for global oil transport. This increase reflects heightened tensions in the region, particularly amid ongoing conflicts inv...