Global NewsHigh Priority (9/10)

Saudi Arabia says key oil pipeline back to full capacity after attacks

Saudi Arabia announced on April 12, 2026, that it has restored full pumping capacity on its East-West pipeline (L1N40S100) to roughly 7 million barrels per day after attacks during the Iran conflict. The strikes initially cut national oil production capacity by about 600,000 bpd and reduced pipeline throughput by around 700,000 bpd, affecting facilities in Riyadh, the Eastern Province, and Yanbu Industrial City. Volumes were reclaimed from the Manifa oilfield, which had been down by 300,000 bpd,

Key Points

  • Saudi Arabia restored full pumping capacity on its East-West crude pipeline to about 7 million barrels per day after attacks damaged infrastructure.
  • The attacks initially cut national oil production capacity by around 600,000 bpd and reduced pipeline throughput by about 700,000 bpd.
  • Recovery involved reclaiming volumes from the Manifa oilfield, which had been down by 300,000 bpd, with ongoing work at the Khurais facility.
  • The rapid restoration aims to enhance supply reliability and continuity for both domestic and global markets amid regional conflict.

Full Details

Saudi Arabia announced on April 12, 2026, that it has restored full pumping capacity on its East-West pipeline (L1N40S100) to roughly 7 million barrels per day after attacks during the Iran conflict. The strikes initially cut national oil production capacity by about 600,000 bpd and reduced pipeline throughput by around 700,000 bpd, affecting facilities in Riyadh, the Eastern Province, and Yanbu Industrial City. Volumes were reclaimed from the Manifa oilfield, which had been down by 300,000 bpd, with work ongoing to bring the Khurais facility back to full output after a similar loss. The rapid restoration, achieved just days after a ceasefire, is intended to improve the reliability and continuity of Saudi oil supplies to both domestic and global markets.

Why It Matters

This quick fix bolsters Saudi Arabia's role as a swing producer, potentially stabilizing oil prices despite ongoing tensions with Iran. For global energy markets, it reduces the risk of supply shocks that could spike costs for industries like aviation and logistics. The incident also highlights vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure, prompting insurers and governments to reassess risk models for Middle Eastern energy assets.

Sourcealjazeera.com

Get stories like this delivered daily

AI-curated news, personalized to your interests. Zero noise.

Start 7-Day Free Trial →

More in Global News