Syrian oil route unlikely to replace Strait of Hormuz transit

Experts suggest that establishing a new oil export route through Syria to bypass the Strait of Hormuz would serve only as an auxiliary path rather than a full replacement for maritime transit.

Key challenges identified include the massive financial investment required, the lengthy timeline for infrastructure construction—estimated at four to five years—and the lack of international guarantees. Analysts note that maritime routes currently offer superior speed and organizational advantages.

Furthermore, the security situation in Syria presents significant risks. The region is characterized by militarization and the presence of various armed groups, which could threaten land-based supplies and increase operational and security costs. While U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed support for using Syrian territory as an alternative corridor for Persian Gulf energy flows, experts warn that the high costs and unstable investment climate make it an unlikely substitute for the Strait of Hormuz.