Iraqi security forces have seized a drone launch platform allegedly used in an attack on Saudi Arabia’s critical East-West oil pipeline.
The equipment was located after an intelligence and security operation, according to Lieutenant General Saad Maan, head of Iraq’s Security Media Cell.
Investigators are now working to identify those responsible for the attack.
Saudi authorities previously said the drones were launched from southeastern Iraq.
Drone launch platform seized in Iraq
Maan said Iraqi forces tracked down and seized the launch equipment following the attack.
Al Jazeera, citing the state-run Iraqi News Agency, reported that forensic and technical teams were continuing their investigation.
Iraq has also approved an Iranian request to participate in the investigation and review its findings.
Baghdad said it remains in direct contact with Saudi authorities and is sharing intelligence related to the incident.
Iraqi officials stressed that the country would not allow its territory to be used to launch attacks against neighbouring states.
Saudi oil pipeline shut after drone strike
Several people were injured when drones struck Saudi Arabia’s East-West pipeline on Thursday, according to Saudi authorities.
The pipeline was subsequently shut as a precaution.
It is strategically important because it allows Saudi Arabia to transport oil from the country’s eastern production areas towards the Red Sea without relying on the Strait of Hormuz.
The route carries an estimated 4% to 5% of global oil supply, according to Al Jazeera.
Saudi Arabia has so far held back from retaliating following a request from Baghdad.
Launch traced to southeastern Iraq
Saudi authorities traced the suspected launch area to Maysan province in southeastern Iraq, close to the Iranian border.
More specifically, Iraqi authorities identified the al-Tayeb border district as the likely launch area, according to Al Jazeera.
The distance between the suspected launch site and the targets suggests long-range drones may have been used.
However, Iraqi investigators have not publicly identified who launched the drones.
Iraq tightens security after attack
Iraqi authorities have taken several security measures following the strike.
Security agencies are pursuing suspects believed to have been involved, while several border crossings with Iran were temporarily closed for inspections.
Some crossings were later partially reopened for humanitarian traffic.
Military commanders in border areas have also been reshuffled following the attack.
The investigation continues as Iraq seeks to prevent its territory from becoming a launch point for attacks elsewhere in the region.