Gulf nations explore new pipeline infrastructure to bypass the Strait of Hormuz

Gulf countries are currently evaluating new pipeline projects to ensure energy exports remain secure due to ongoing instability in the Strait of Hormuz. Industry officials and executives, as reported by the Financial Times, highlight these pipelines as critical to reducing vulnerability to potential transit disruptions. The 1,200-kilometer East-West pipeline in Saudi Arabia, built in the 1980s, is currently serving as a vital strategic asset. It transports 7 million barrels of oil per day to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, successfully bypassing the strait. Amin Nasser, CEO of Saudi Aramco, confirmed that this route is the primary method currently utilized by the kingdom. Saudi Arabia is now considering expanding the capacity of the East-West pipeline or constructing entirely new routes. The goal is to shift a larger portion of the kingdom's 10.2 million barrels of daily production away from Iranian-controlled waters. These infrastructure efforts aim to safeguard energy continuity amidst regional geopolitical tensions.