IEA Chief Calls Strait of Hormuz a "Broken Vase"... Stresses Need for T?rkiye-Iraq Pipeline

Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), recently argued that a pipeline connecting T?rkiye and Iraq should be constructed in order to reduce dependence on the Strait of Hormuz, which has been blocked due to the ongoing war between the United States and Israel and Iran.

Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), held a press conference in Brussels, Belgium, on the 6th of last month (local time). Photo by Reuters Yonhap News

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In an interview with the Turkish daily Hurriyet on April 19 (local time), Executive Director Birol stated, "A pipeline connecting Basra in Iraq and Ceyhan on T?rkiye's Mediterranean coast could become a highly attractive and significant project for both countries." He further suggested, "I believe that funding issues can also be overcome," adding, "Now is the right time."

Executive Director Birol pointed out that Iraqi oil produced in the Persian Gulf (Gulf region) is exported to various countries via the Strait of Hormuz, and that 90% of this oil is produced in Basra, located in southeastern Iraq.

Although the United States and Iran are engaged in peace negotiations, uncertainty remains. Previously, Iran announced that it would fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but less than 24 hours later, on April 18, reversed its position and reimposed restrictions on vessel movement in the strait. As the strait was once again closed, several liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers had to turn back.

Executive Director Birol described the Strait of Hormuz as "a vase that, once broken, is very difficult to repair," emphasizing, "A new pipeline is essential for Iraq and an opportunity for T?rkiye." He added that this also presents a significant opportunity for Europe in terms of supply security, and anticipated that European support could help address funding challenges.

T?rkiye's value as an alternative route for energy transport is also attracting renewed attention. T?rkiye has previously proposed extending the existing T?rkiye-Iraq pipeline, which currently links the northern Kirkuk oil field to Ceyhan, further south. The idea is that by connecting Basra to this pipeline, various European countries could more easily secure supplies of Iraqi crude oil.

According to Bloomberg News, "Due to the war between Israel and Hamas, the US-backed India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) project has been delayed, and T?rkiye is emerging as a realistic alternative." The outlet added, "Attacks by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea have disrupted maritime shipments, and with increasing regional instability, the IMEC project has effectively been suspended."

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