Iraq investigates Saudi pipeline drone strikes and closes three Iran crossings
Baghdad has dismissed a military commander and approved a joint investigation with Iran after authorities said the drones were launched from Iraqi territory.
Iraq has opened an investigation into drone strikes on Saudi Arabia’s East-West oil pipeline after authorities said the operation was launched from Iraqi territory.
Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi dismissed the military commander in Maysan province, which borders Iran, after the prime minister’s office said the attack originated there. Iraq has also approved Iran’s request for a joint investigation into drone launch platforms reportedly found near the border.
Three crossings into Iran have been temporarily closed: Shalamcheh in Basra province, al-Shib in Maysan and Mandali in Diyala. The al-Tayyib border area in southeastern Maysan was also shut after launchers were reportedly discovered, with a search operation under way.
An Iraqi security source told Al Jazeera that the crossings were closed amid concern that those responsible could flee to Iran. The government has not disclosed the number or precise location of the alleged launch platforms, and no group has claimed responsibility.
The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iran-backed armed fighters, said the attack was “an honour that we do not claim”. US President Donald Trump said Tehran was “probably” behind the strikes but provided no evidence. Iran’s involvement has not been established.
The attack took place on Thursday, prompting Saudi Arabia to temporarily suspend the East-West pipeline as a precaution. The route is a major alternative to the Strait of Hormuz, which remains partially closed, but the investigation has not established the perpetrators or their motive.
