Saudi Arabia has temporarily shut down its East-West crude oil pipeline, a critical alternative route to the Strait of Hormuz, following multiple attacks attributed to Iran-backed Houthi forces from Yemen. The Saudi Energy Ministry stated that the decision was made as a precaution in response to escalating hostilities that have seen Houthi drones reportedly launched from Iraq strike the pipeline, igniting fires and causing damage. These assaults have intensified amid a broader conflict in the region, raising concerns regarding energy security and potentially driving oil prices higher. The UN Security Council has condemned the Houthi attacks, warning of the risks of a wider conflict in the Middle East.