Trump Says Iran Likely Behind Saudi Pipeline Attack

Current President Donald Trump said Iran was probably responsible for an aerial attack that damaged and shut down Saudi Arabia’s East-West oil pipeline, a key route that allows the kingdom to export crude without using the Strait of Hormuz. The attack has heightened concerns about global energy supplies as regional fighting and threats to Red Sea shipping disrupt alternative export routes. Trump said he had spoken with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, whom he described as a close friend. He also said Iran-aligned Houthi forces in Yemen had contacted his administration to signal that they did not want direct U.S. involvement, while allowing most ships to pass through the Red Sea. Trump predicted that the war with Iran would end shortly after the U.S. midterm elections and reiterated that Iran must not obtain nuclear weapons.