Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has called for faster implementation of a planned oil pipeline network aimed at diversifying export routes and increasing crude export capacity.
The network includes the Basra-Haditha-Fishkhabur pipeline to Turkey and the Haditha-Baniyas pipeline to Syria, offering alternatives to maritime exports through the Strait of Hormuz.
Al-Zaidi directed the Oil Ministry to facilitate the project’s implementation and reviewed its technical and economic aspects, including projected oil volumes and long-term development benefits.
Qatar-based UCC Holding is leading a consortium with Chevron, TI Capital and TotalEnergies to implement the projects. The Basra-Haditha section is estimated to cost $4.6 billion and would transport crude from southern Basra to Haditha in western Anbar.
The network could ultimately provide Iraq with additional export outlets through Turkey’s Ceyhan, Syria’s Baniyas and Jordan’s Aqaba, reducing the country’s dependence on Gulf maritime routes.