The government of the Maldives has firmly condemned the drone strikes aimed at Saudi Arabia’s East-West Pipeline, an essential component of the nation's energy infrastructure.

On Thursday, the Foreign Ministry announced that several drones fired from Iraqi land hit parts of the pipeline in the Riyadh and Madinah areas, wounding civilians and damaging the structure.

“Attacks on critical infrastructure represent a violation of Saudi Arabia's autonomy and sovereignty, and present a significant danger to peace, security, and stability throughout the region,” the statement noted.

The Ministry reiterated Maldives' support for the Government and citizens of Saudi Arabia and stated complete backing for any actions the kingdom undertakes to protect its sovereignty, security, and safety.

The East-West Pipeline is a key crude-transport route in Saudi Arabia, moving oil from eastern fields to export facilities on the Red Sea shore. Assaults on vital energy infrastructure can greatly impact the worldwide oil market and security in the Middle East.