Iraq to build Syria-Türkiye oil pipeline to cut Hormuz dependence

Iraq is preparing to begin construction of a new oil pipeline linking the country with Syria and Türkiye as part of efforts to reduce its dependence on crude exports through the Strait of Hormuz, an Iraqi oil ministry official has said.

Salim al-Rikabi, spokesperson for Iraq's Ministry of Oil, said the project would initially involve the construction of the Basra–Haditha pipeline, which would later be extended to the Turkish Mediterranean port of Ceyhan and the Syrian port of Baniyas, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

He said the new export corridor would help Iraq, one of the world's largest crude oil exporters, diversify its energy transport routes and strengthen the security of its oil shipments.

The announcement follows an agreement signed by Iraq and Türkiye in early August on the transportation and handling of Iraqi crude through a pipeline to Ceyhan. Under the deal, the minimum transport volume has been set at 750,000 barrels per day.

Before the recent conflict involving Iran, a substantial share of Iraq's crude exports to international markets passed through the Strait of Hormuz. Disruptions to traffic along the strategic waterway have affected Baghdad's export revenues and highlighted the risks of relying on a single maritime route.

The planned pipeline is expected to provide Iraq with an alternative export corridor, allowing crude shipments to reach international markets through Türkiye and Syria while reducing exposure to potential disruptions in the Gulf.

By Aghakazim Guliyev