Saudi Aramco to halt October crude deliveries to European refiners after pipeline attack

September 21, 2026 at 01:26 PM2 min

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Saudi Aramco has told at least two European refiners it will not deliver crude oil to them next month. The suspension follows a drone attack by Houthi forces on the East-West pipeline, which has halted flows. European buyers are seeking alternative supplies as Brent crude trades near $102 a barrel.

Key Facts

Saudi Aramco informed at least two European refiners that no crude deliveries will be made in October.
The East-West pipeline, about 1,200 km long, links eastern Saudi oil fields to the Red Sea port of Yanbu.
Three pumping stations were damaged in the drone attack, and repairs may take several weeks.
Brent crude traded at about $104 per barrel on September 18, then fell below $102.
Polish refiner Orlen has issued tenders to arrange additional crude supplies from other countries.

Pipeline Attack

Houthi forces struck the East-West pipeline with drones, forcing a temporary shutdown. The pipeline, approximately 1,200 kilometers long, connects Saudi Arabia's eastern oil fields to the Red Sea port of Yanbu. Three pumping stations were damaged in the attack, according to oil industry sources. Repair work may take several weeks, preliminary estimates indicate.

European Supply Disruption

European refiners typically receive Saudi crude via the Sidi Kerir port in Egypt, supplied from Yanbu. Saudi Aramco has not officially commented on the suspension of deliveries to Europe. Polish oil company Orlen has issued multiple tenders to secure additional crude from other countries. Traders report additional crude shipments from the Persian Gulf are being arranged.

Market Reaction

The East-West pipeline can transport several million barrels of crude per day, making it critical for global oil markets. Brent crude traded at about $104 per barrel on September 18, then fell below $102. WTI crude was trading around $98 per barrel. Concerns have emerged over further tightening of global oil supply following the attack.