Iran-Aligned Axis Tightens Grip on Saudi Energy Exports

The Iran-aligned axis has recently implemented a two-pronged strategy to disrupt Saudi Arabia's energy exports, significantly impacting the kingdom's economic interests. In the past few days, the axis successfully shut down the East-West oil pipeline, a critical artery for transporting oil within Saudi Arabia. Concurrently, they have gained control over the Bab el-Mandeb strait, effectively blocking Saudi maritime vessels from passing through this vital waterway.

This series of actions comes amid criticism of Saudi leadership, particularly Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The article suggests that bin Salman's recent policies, including a closer approach to the Palestinians at the expense of normalization with Israel, and his failure to confront the Houthis while Israel was engaged in conflict, have weakened the kingdom's position. The narrative implies that these missteps have left Saudi Arabia vulnerable to the current pressures exerted by the axis.