The continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz has prompted Iraq’s new government to intensify efforts to increase and diversify oil export routes in order to safeguard national revenues.

Expanding Export Routes and Strategic Diversification

The recent meeting between the Iraqi Prime Minister and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) delegation, which led to the decision to resume oil exports via the Port of Ceyhan, represents a key step by Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi to establish alternative export routes for Iraqi oil.

Al-Zaidi also called on international oil companies to immediately resume production and export operations, pledging full protection and comprehensive security guarantees for their activities.

Increasing Pipeline and Alternative Export Capacity

A central pillar of the government’s strategy is to expand oil exports through pipeline infrastructure. In its session on the 2nd of this month, the Iraqi Council of Ministers decided to raise oil exports via the Ceyhan pipeline from 220,000 barrels to 770,000 barrels per day, with implementation required within two and a half months.

New Export Routes and Administrative Steps

The government is also working on exporting oil via overland routes through Syria to the ports of Baniyas and Tartus. In parallel, it has decided to open an official representative office of the Ministry of Oil in Syria to oversee and monitor logistical operations.

Impact of the Strait of Hormuz Closure

The Strait of Hormuz serves as the main artery for Iraq’s oil exports. Its closure for more than three months has disrupted export flows, prompting Baghdad to accelerate efforts to diversify and secure alternative export channels.