Gulf states study alternative pipelines to bypass Strait of Hormuz
Gulf states study alternative pipelines.. Bypass Strait of Hormuz to secure 20% of global oil supplies
The Financial Times reported that Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, are studying options to build and expand new oil and gas pipelines away from the Strait of Hormuz. This move comes amid near-complete disruption of navigation in the strait due to regional military tensions, putting about 20% of global oil supplies at potential risk.
The report said the goal of creating these alternative networks is to ensure oil supply security and reduce dependence on the vital waterway. It noted that Saudi Arabia already operates the East-West pipeline, which carries oil from eastern fields to the western Red Sea coast, providing a practical example of how to bypass the Strait of Hormuz using a land-based network.
The Saudi East-West pipeline stretches 1,200 kilometers, was built in the 1980s, and is currently capable of transporting millions of barrels per day to Yanbu port on the Red Sea. The report also noted that options exist for future projects including alternative networks linking oil fields to ports on the Red Sea or the Mediterranean.
The newspaper confirmed that implementing these projects faces significant challenges, including high financial costs, political complexities and coordination between countries, in addition to the long time required for planning and construction. Nevertheless, it views this step as part of the Gulf states’ long-term strategy to ensure continued oil flow to global markets even during times of crisis.
بريطانيا تحشد نحو 35 دولة للضغط من أجل إعادة فتح مضيق هرمز
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