Trump Says Iran Likely Behind Saudi Oil Pipeline Attack as Middle East Tensions Rise

September 12, 2026 — U.S. President Donald Trump said Iran was probably responsible for a drone attack that targeted Saudi Arabia’s critical East-West oil pipeline, adding another layer of tension to an already volatile Middle East conflict.

Saudi Arabia temporarily shut down the pipeline after several drones struck infrastructure in the Riyadh and Medina regions. Saudi officials said the drones were launched from Iraqi territory and that the attacks caused injuries and damage.

Trump Points to Iran

Speaking to reporters in Dublin, Trump said he believed Iran was likely behind the attack. He also said he had spoken with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman about the situation.

However, there has been no confirmed public claim of responsibility for the attack. The Iraqi government has acknowledged that the attack originated from within Iraqi territory and has launched an investigation.

The distinction is important because Iraq is home to several Iran-aligned armed groups, but the origin of the drones does not by itself establish that Iran's government directly ordered the attack.

Why the Pipeline Matters

Saudi Arabia’s East-West pipeline is a major part of the kingdom’s oil-export infrastructure. The roughly 1,200-kilometer pipeline connects oil-producing areas in eastern Saudi Arabia with the Red Sea port of Yanbu.

The route has become particularly important during the current conflict because it provides Saudi Arabia with an alternative to shipping crude through the Strait of Hormuz.

Reuters reported that the pipeline had been moving an estimated 4 million to 5 million barrels of oil per day in recent months, equivalent to roughly 4% to 5% of global supply.

Saudi Arabia Holds Off on Immediate Retaliation

Saudi Arabia has so far decided not to immediately retaliate against the attack.

The Saudi government said it was giving Iraq an opportunity to investigate and take measures to prevent further attacks originating from its territory. Riyadh nevertheless warned that it reserves the right to take necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, security and critical infrastructure.

Iraq has also taken steps following the attack, including dismissing a military commander and closing a border crossing with Iran as part of its response and investigation.

Oil Markets Under Pressure

The attack comes as energy markets are already facing severe disruption from the wider U.S.-Iran conflict.

Oil prices have climbed above $100 per barrel, while U.S. diesel prices have also risen sharply. Analysts and market participants are watching closely to see whether further attacks could disrupt additional oil-export routes or international shipping lanes.

The situation has become even more complicated after Iran-aligned Houthi forces expanded their presence around the Bab el-Mandeb shipping route, another strategically important corridor for global trade and energy shipments.

What Happens Next?

The immediate focus will be on Saudi Arabia’s investigation, Iraq’s response and whether further attacks occur against Gulf energy infrastructure.

Any direct escalation involving Iran, Saudi Arabia or the United States could place additional pressure on global oil markets and increase concerns about fuel prices.

For now, Trump’s accusation has increased political pressure on Iran, while Saudi Arabia and Iraq are attempting to prevent the latest incident from triggering a wider regional escalation.

The situation remains fluid, and further developments could have significant consequences for global energy markets and U.S. consumers.

Source Note

This article is based on reporting from Reuters, Associated Press and official Saudi statements available on September 12, 2026.