BAGHDAD, 13 September 2026 (Nosheen): Iraq has launched an investigation into a drone attack on a Saudi Arabian pipeline and temporarily closed three border crossings with Iran after Saudi Arabia and Iraq said the drones were launched from Iraqi territory. An Iraqi security source said the closures were part of an intelligence operation to track down those responsible, prevent their escape and curb the smuggling of drones through the crossings. The crossings closed include Shalamsheh in Basra province, al-Shib in Missan and al-Mandali in Diyala, while other crossings with Iran remain operational. Iraq’s security media cell said authorities had begun administrative and security reorganisation at several border crossings and intensified intelligence activities to identify security breaches and violations. Passengers stranded for hours at two crossings were later allowed to proceed. Shortly after the attack, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi dismissed the military commander in Missan province, which borders Iran, after authorities determined that the drones had been launched from the area. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, while a coalition of powerful Iran-backed Iraqi armed groups denied involvement in the strike. Saudi Arabia has previously accused such groups of targeting its oil infrastructure.