Iraq plans to continue shipping 3.6 million barrels of crude via Syria’s Baniyas port, reducing reliance on the Strait of Hormuz.
Iraq will keep exporting crude oil and naphtha through Syria’s Mediterranean port of Baniyas, even after the Strait of Hormuz reopens. The move follows disruptions that forced Iraq to seek alternative routes, with storage tanks nearing capacity. Officials confirmed the strategy remains permanent to avoid future dependence on Hormuz.
Iraq typically exports around 3.6 million barrels per day, with Hormuz serving as its primary export channel. The shift to Syria’s port emerged as an emergency measure but is now viewed as a long-term solution. No timeline was provided for Hormuz’s full reopening or its impact on Iraq’s export volumes.
The decision signals a strategic pivot away from Hormuz, reflecting broader regional concerns over supply chain vulnerabilities. Markets have yet to react to the announcement, but the move could stabilize Iraq’s export capacity long-term.