A key Saudi oil pipeline struck in an attack last week is expected to remain mostly out of service for three to five weeks as crews repair the damage.

The East-West Pipeline, which can carry up to seven million barrels of oil a day, is vital to Saudi Arabia’s efforts to export oil through the Red Sea and avoid the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi Arabia blamed Thursday’s attack on drones from Iranian-backed militias in Iraq. The officials said the pipeline could operate partially during repairs.