Gulf countries plan to invest heavily in pipeline export projects to bypass the Strait of Hormuz

ME News report, April 2 (UTC+8). As Iran’s potential long-term control of the Strait of Hormuz poses a threat, Gulf countries are re-examining costly pipeline plans to bypass this vital shipping chokepoint and ensure oil and gas exports. Government officials and industry executives said that although the pipeline projects are expensive, politically complex, and take years to develop, this may be the only way to reduce Gulf countries’ reliance on the strait. The ongoing conflict further highlights the strategic value of Saudi Arabia’s 1,200-kilometer “East-West Pipeline.” Built in the 1980s, it was originally intended to address concerns about the strait being closed during the Iran-Iraq “tanker war.” Today, it has become a critical lifeline, sending 7 million barrels of crude oil per day to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, completely bypassing the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi Arabia is currently considering how to export more crude oil via pipelines, with specific proposals including expanding the capacity of the “East-West Pipeline” or opening new routes. (Jin10) (Source: ODAILY)