Iraq-Syria Pipeline Revival Could Weaken Iranian Influence

An old pipeline connecting Iraq to Syria that bypasses the Strait of Hormuz could be up and running within three years, according to a senior Syrian official.

The pipeline would allow Iraq to export crude oil directly to Syria's Mediterranean coast without relying on the crucial waterway. This comes after the recent closure of the Strait of Hormuz exposed a major vulnerability in Iraq's energy exports.

Iraq and Syria have started negotiations to finalize the contract for rebuilding the pipeline, which will be crucial for both countries' post-war economies. The project is expected to consist of two pipelines with a capacity of between 1.5 million barrels per day (bpd) and 2 million bpd.

The completion of the renovation would take 'three years at most,' said Youssef Qablawi, CEO of the state-owned Syrian Petroleum Company. Engineering studies and the purchase of materials will begin after contract finalization, followed by construction.