Maysan province in Iraq is in the news as Iraqi leaders investigate drone launches from its territory linked to attacks on Saudi oil infrastructure; it sits at a geopolitically sensitive junction near the Tigris and border with Iran, with a history of activity around security and energy logistics.
The Houthis have seized the Red Sea coast and three strategic islands, while Saudi Arabia shuts the East-West pipeline and Iraq closes border crossings amid attacks blamed on drones from Iraq. The moves threaten oil shipments and push prices above $100 a barrel as regional tensions escalate.
Iraq has agreed to a joint investigation with Iran into drone launch sites near the border, while border crossings with Iran are closed. The Saudi East-West pipeline has been attacked, with Riyadh suspending the route as security reviews proceed. Officials say no group has claimed responsibility.
Saudi Arabia has shut the East-West pipeline as a precaution after drone attacks injure people and damage infrastructure. The move comes as the kingdom pivots away from the Strait of Hormuz amid conflict in the region, with global oil supplies already tightening.