US failed to defeat Iran? Trump eyes new alternative for Hormuz, may reopen very old oil pipeline with Iraq and…, not Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Dubai

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East and growing concerns over the Strait of Hormuz, the United States, Iraq and Syria are reportedly preparing a major energy agreement. According to media reports, the three countries may announce next week that they will restart the decades-old Kirkuk-Baniyas oil pipeline. The move is aimed at creating an alternative route for oil exports and reducing dependence on the Strait of Hormuz.

Reports suggest that Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi is expected to visit the United States next week. During the visit, he is likely to meet US President Donald Trump at the White House. The proposed oil pipeline agreement could be announced during this meeting.

What is the Kirkuk-Baniyas pipeline?

The Kirkuk-Baniyas pipeline stretches about 800 kilometres from Kirkuk in northern Iraq to the Mediterranean port of Baniyas in Syria. If reopened, it will allow Iraq to export oil directly through the Mediterranean Sea, reducing its reliance on Gulf shipping routes and the Strait of Hormuz.

Why is the US supporting this project?

According to reports, US Ambassador to Türkiye and Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack is leading discussions on the project. The US sees the pipeline as an important step to strengthen regional economic cooperation and improve its strategic position in the Middle East. Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi is also expected to visit Texas, the US energy hub, during his trip.

Pipeline was built in 1952

The Kirkuk-Baniyas pipeline was built in 1952 by the Iraq Petroleum Company. It had the capacity to transport around 300,000 barrels of oil per day.

The pipeline was shut down during the 1980s after Syria supported Iran in the Iran-Iraq war. Later, it suffered major damage during the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003 and has remained largely unused since then.

Why is it important now?

The Strait of Hormuz has become a major concern due to growing tensions between the US and Iran. A large share of the world’s oil passes through this narrow waterway. If the Kirkuk-Baniyas pipeline becomes operational again, it could provide an alternative export route and reduce the risk of disruptions caused by any conflict in the Gulf region.

No official confirmation yet

So far, neither the United States, Iraq nor Syria has officially confirmed the proposed agreement. However, if the project moves forward, it could significantly reshape oil exports and energy trade across the Middle East.

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