In the Persian Gulf, discussions are underway about building pipelines to reduce dependence on the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant share of global oil supplies transits. This was reported by the Financial Times, citing sources. According to the publication, countries in the region are exploring alternative export routes, including the construction of new pipelines that would ensure uninterrupted deliveries by bypassing the strait. These discussions have intensified following its blockage by Iran and the rising risks to navigation.
Saudi Arabia already has the East–West pipeline, which allows oil to be transported to the Red Sea while avoiding Hormuz. One of the options under consideration is to expand its capacity.
At the same time, as the FT notes, larger-scale projects are also being discussed. In particular, this could involve infrastructure development within the framework of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, presented at the G20 New Delhi Summit 2023. The project envisions the creation of a transport network linking India, the Middle East, and Europe, including pipelines, ports, and railways. One of the key nodes of this route is expected to be the Port of Haifa.
Christopher Bush, CEO of the construction company Cat Group, told the FT that interest in such projects had already been high even before the outbreak of the war between the United States, Israel, and Iran. According to him, building a pipeline within Saudi Arabia could cost at least $5 billion, as it would have to cross the Hejaz mountain range. More complex routes, such as exporting Iraqi oil via Jordan, Syria, or Turkey, are estimated at $15–20 billion. As Bush noted, such projects involve not only technical challenges but also significant security risks.
Before the conflict, around 20% of global seaborne oil exports, about 20 million barrels per day, as well as substantial volumes of liquefied natural gas, passed through the Strait of Hormuz. Its blockage by Iran became one of the key factors behind the sharp rise in global energy prices.
U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Washington would not seek to reopen the strait. According to him, this responsibility lies with the countries that depend on it for their oil supplies, while the United States is only prepared to provide support.
