Baghdad: The Ministry of Oil confirmed on Tuesday that the project to extend an oil export pipeline via the port of Banias is still under study, explaining that Iraq is exploring alternative routes to its existing seaports.

According to Iraqi News Agency, Ministry spokesman Salim al-Rikabi stated, “The project to extend an Iraqi oil export pipeline via the port of Banias in Syrian territory is still under study.” He added that the initiative is closely tied to another project, which involves extending the Basra-Haditha pipeline to transport crude oil to Haditha. Following this, plans for an alternative pipeline to the Turkish pipeline will commence.

Al-Rikabi highlighted the importance of conducting a feasibility study for the project. Once the pipeline is completed, it will serve as a replacement for the tankers currently used to transport oil through Syrian territory. The project promises to enhance Iraq’s export capabilities by offering greater flexibility and alternative export routes.

He further explained that the project is designed to mitigate restrictions similar to those experienced during the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which significantly impacted Iraq’s export operations. The presence of alternative routes would ensure uninterrupted export activities.

In related developments, Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein visited Damascus on Monday, where he discussed the pipeline project with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The project, sponsored by a foreign company, is intended to pass through Syrian territory, underscoring Iraq’s commitment to securing diverse export channels.