Saudi Arabia has shut down its East-West oil pipeline after it was struck by drones launched from Iraqi territory, in an incident that threatens a critical alternative route for crude exports from the Gulf.

Riyadh said it closed the pipeline as a precaution following the Thursday attack. Satellite images showed scorched ground and smoke near the site. The Saudi foreign ministry confirmed the attack resulted in injuries and damage, which was still being assessed.

The 1,200-kilometre (745-mile) pipeline has allowed Saudi Arabia, the world's largest crude oil exporter, to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. According to sources citing ship tracking companies and analysts, the pipeline carries between 4% and 5% of global oil supply.

Iraq acknowledged that the drone attack had originated in the Maysan governorate, a province bordering Iran. Following the admission, the Iraqi prime minister's office announced that the operations commander in the region had been removed from his post. An investigation has been launched.

Saudi Arabia said it would not retaliate at this stage, following a call from Iraq's prime minister. The kingdom said it would "support the efforts of the Iraqi government" to "prevent attacks" launched from the country against neighbouring states.

In a formal statement, Riyadh added: "The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia affirms that it reserves its right to take all necessary measures to safeguard its sovereignty and security, protect its facilities, and ensure the safety of its citizens and residents."

The incident comes amid a major advance by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, adding further pressure on global oil shipping routes. The broader regional conflict is now in its seventh month.