CNBC: Ирак и ОАЭ начали ускоренно развивать новые нефтяные маршруты

{"title":"Iraq and UAE Accelerate Development of Alternative Oil Export Routes to Bypass Strait of Hormuz","content":"<p>The governments of Iraq and the United Arab Emirates are actively pursuing the development of alternative oil transit routes that would bypass the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, according to a recent CNBC report. This significant shift in energy infrastructure planning reflects growing concerns about the vulnerability of existing oil transportation channels and the geopolitical tensions that continue to simmer in one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints.</p><p>The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway separating Iran from the Arabian Peninsula, has long been considered the most important oil transit point in the world. Approximately 20 to 21 million barrels of oil pass through this 33-kilometer-wide passage daily, representing roughly one-fifth of global petroleum consumption. Any disruption to traffic through this strait could trigger immediate spikes in global energy prices and potentially destabilize economies worldwide. The strait's strategic importance has made it a focal point of international tensions, particularly during periods of heightened conflict between Iran and Western nations.</p><p>Iraq, which possesses the world's fifth-largest proven oil reserves, currently relies heavily on its southern export terminals near Basra for the majority of its crude oil shipments. These exports must navigate through the Persian Gulf and subsequently pass through the Strait of Hormuz to reach international markets. The country has been exploring various pipeline projects and alternative routes that would provide direct access to the Mediterranean Sea or the Red Sea, effectively circumventing the vulnerable strait entirely. One such project under consideration involves reviving and expanding pipeline infrastructure through neighboring countries to reach Mediterranean ports.</p><p>The United Arab Emirates, meanwhile, has already made significant progress in developing bypass capabilities. The Habshan-Fujairah oil pipeline, completed in 2012, allows the UAE to export approximately 1.5 million barrels per day directly to the Gulf of Oman, avoiding the Strait of Hormuz altogether. However, current initiatives suggest that Abu Dhabi is looking to further expand this capacity and develop additional infrastructure to reduce its reliance on the traditional shipping route. The Fujairah port on the UAE's eastern coast has emerged as a critical hub for these bypass operations.</p><p>Historical context underscores the urgency of these diversification efforts. During the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, the so-called "Tanker War" saw both nations attack oil vessels in the Persian Gulf, disrupting global oil supplies and sending prices soaring. More recently, in 2019, several oil tankers were attacked near the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, reminding the global community of the region's volatility. Iran has repeatedly threatened to close the strait in response to economic sanctions, a move that would have catastrophic consequences for global energy markets.</p><p>Energy analysts view these infrastructure developments as prudent long-term strategic planning by Gulf oil producers. The diversification of export routes not only provides insurance against potential military conflicts but also offers greater flexibility in responding to market demands and reduces shipping costs for certain destinations. Industry experts estimate that alternative routes could save significant transit time for oil bound for European and African markets, potentially making Gulf crude more competitive against rival producers. The investments also signal to international oil buyers that these nations are committed to ensuring reliable supply chains regardless of regional political developments.</p><p>The accelerated development of these alternative routes comes at a particularly sensitive time for global energy markets. With ongoing conflicts affecting traditional supply chains and increasing attention to energy security following recent geopolitical disruptions, oil-producing nations are under pressure to demonstrate supply reliability. The projects undertaken by Iraq and the UAE represent billions of dollars in infrastructure investment but are increasingly seen as essential hedges against an uncertain future. As the global energy landscape continues to evolve, these strategic investments may prove crucial in maintaining the stable flow of oil that the world economy depends upon, while simultaneously reducing the leverage that control of the Strait of Hormuz provides to any single nation.</p>}