Iraq seizes drone platform used to target Saudi oil pipeline

BAGHDAD

AA Photo

Iraqi authorities seized a drone-launching platform inside Iraqi territory used in an attack on an oil pipeline in Saudi Arabia, Security Media Cell chief Saad Maan said on Sept. 12.

An intelligence and security task force made significant efforts and managed to locate and seize the launch platform, Maan said in a statement carried by the state-run Iraqi News Agency (INA).

Investigative procedures are ongoing, involving forensic experts, technical documentation, examination and analysis, he added.

The efforts aim to identify those involved through continued intensive field and intelligence work.
Baghdad and Riyadh continue communication at various levels to exchange intelligence and security information, Maan said.

Security and intelligence agencies are continuing pursuit operations to arrest all those involved in the attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, Iraqi army spokesman Sabah al-Numan said.

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi approved an Iranian request for a joint investigation after launch platforms for drones were found near the border between the two countries, INA reported.

Several drones launched from Iraq struck the East-West oil pipeline in the Riyadh and Medina regions, causing injuries and material damage, Saudi Arabia said on Sept. 11.

The kingdom decided not to respond at this stage following a request from the Iraqi prime minister to allow his government to take preventative measures, the Saudi Foreign Ministry said.

These measures aim to prevent Iraqi territory from being used to attack Saudi Arabia and neighboring countries.