What is the East–West oil pipeline and why is it important in the Iran–US–Israel conflict?

The East–West oil pipeline is a crucial Saudi Arabian oil pipeline that runs entirely within Saudi Arabia, from Abqaiq in the Eastern Province to Yanbu on the Red Sea coast. It serves as the kingdom’s alternative crude export route when the Strait of Hormuz faces disruptions. During the Iran–US–Israel conflict, the pipeline became strategically important because it diverted around 7 million barrels per day (bpd) to the Red Sea port of Yanbu after Iran effectively shuttered the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global energy markets.

Does the East–West oil pipeline run entirely within Saudi Arabia?

Yes, the East–West oil pipeline runs entirely within Saudi Arabia. It connects Abqaiq in the Eastern Province to Yanbu on the Red Sea coast, providing a domestic route for crude exports without passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

When was the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) formed and which countries are its members?

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) was formed in 1981, not after the Arab Spring. The six founding member states are Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. It was created to address political, security, and economic challenges in the Gulf region.

Which is the smallest country in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)?

Bahrain is the smallest member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in terms of area. Despite its size, it plays a significant diplomatic role in regional and international affairs.

Who are the Houthis and what is their role in Yemen?

The Houthis are an armed political and religious group in Yemen that represents the country’s Shia Muslim minority, specifically the Zaidis. Founded in the 1990s by Hussein Badreddin al-Houthi, the group seized Sana’a, Yemen’s capital, in 2014 and overthrew President Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi. They are part of Iran’s regional alliance network known as the 'axis of resistance.'

Are the Houthis part of the axis of resistance?

Yes, the Houthis are considered part of Iran’s regional alliance network called the 'axis of resistance.' This alliance includes groups such as Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Which country is importing 200 broad-gauge railway coaches from India?

Bangladesh is set to import 200 broad-gauge (BG) railway coaches from India. The coaches will be financed by the European Investment Bank and inducted between June 2026 and December 2027 to expand Bangladesh’s railway infrastructure.

What is the India–Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline?

The India–Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline is a bilateral initiative signed in 2017 to ensure uninterrupted diesel supply from India to Bangladesh. It played a critical role during fuel shortages caused by Middle East geopolitical tensions, including disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz.

Which European country introduced a new military service law in 2026?

Germany introduced a new military service law at the start of 2026 to strengthen its armed forces amid European security threats. The law requires men aged 18 to 46 to obtain approval from a Bundeswehr Career Center if they wish to leave Germany for more than three months.

Why did Germany reintroduce military service regulations in 2026?

Germany reintroduced military service regulations in 2026 due to growing security concerns arising from Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine. The legislation aims to boost armed forces strength and enhance national security preparedness.

Daily UPSC Prelims MCQs - International Relations - 17th April 2026

Jigyashu Mishra
2 days ago
1 min read

Test your UPSC CSE 2026 preparation with today’s International Relations (Every Friday) Quiz — covering East–West oil pipeline, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Houthis, broad-gauge (BG) coaches, new military service law and more.

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Daily UPSC Prelims MCQs - International Relations - 17th April 2026

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