Iraq Seizes Drone Launch Platform Used in Attack on Saudi Oil Pipeline

According to Al Jazeera on Saturday, September 12, 2026 (21 Shahrivar 1405), Lieutenant General Saad Maan, head of Iraq's Security Media Cell, said in a statement carried by the state run Iraqi News Agency (INA) that Iraqi security and intelligence forces have tracked down and seized the drone launch platform used in the attack on Saudi Arabia's East West oil pipeline. The pipeline, which carries about 4 to 5 percent of global oil supply and is Saudi Arabia's only alternative route bypassing the Strait of Hormuz, was shut down as a precaution after several drones launched from Iraqi territory struck it on Thursday, September 10 (19 Shahrivar).

Saudi authorities traced the launch site to Maysan province in southeastern Iraq, near the Iranian border. Maan said Iraq's commander in chief approved Iran's request to join the investigation, and that Baghdad is exchanging intelligence directly with Saudi authorities. Saudi Arabia has said it is holding off on retaliation for now at Baghdad's request.