East-West Pipeline
Coverage of East-West Pipeline in the Nexus archive.
- Saudi Aramco reports bumper profits as it bypasses Strait of Hormuz
Saudi Aramco reported a 33% surge in profits for Q2 2026, driven by elevated energy prices due to the US-Israeli war on Iran and its ability to bypass the Strait of Hormuz via the East-West Pipeline. The pipeline enabled Saudi Arabia to maintain two-thirds of its pre-war oil exports while other Gulf states reduced shipments. The conflict has spurred regional efforts to develop alternative infrastructure to avoid Hormuz.
- Aramco profit rises 33% on higher oil prices
Saudi Aramco’s second-quarter profit rose 33% due to higher oil prices and strong refining margins, despite lower export volumes caused by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb. The company maintained operations using infrastructure like the East-West pipeline and Red Sea terminals but faces challenges diverting prewar export levels. Aramco plans to expand export capacity to address future disruptions.
- Houthis launch drone attacks on Saudi oil infrastructure
Houthis, an Iran-backed group, launched drone attacks on Saudi Arabian oil infrastructure, targeting supply and transport points in eastern Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia reported intercepting drones from Iran-backed groups in Iraq and demanded Iraq prevent its territory from being used for such attacks.
- Pipelines to bypass the Strait of Hormuz
Efforts to bypass the Strait of Hormuz are accelerating due to security concerns and supply disruptions, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE developing new pipelines and ports. Goldman Sachs estimates seven new pipelines could divert 14 million barrels per day away from the strait by 2028, while Saudi Arabia plans to expand its East-West pipeline capacity and the UAE is building a 252-mile pipeline to double export capabilities.
- From Syria to UAE, the race to bypass Strait of Hormuz is on
Middle Eastern countries are investing in new pipelines to bypass the Strait of Hormuz amid tensions over control of energy flows. Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iraq are developing infrastructure projects to reduce reliance on the strategic chokepoint, while Kuwait and Bahrain face vulnerabilities due to geographic dependence on the strait.
- Yemen’s Houthis announce a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia
Yemen’s Houthi rebels announced a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia in response to an attack on Sanaa Airport. The embargo, described as 'an eye for an eye,' follows recent strikes on Sanaa International Airport and Abha airport in Saudi Arabia, threatening a 2022 truce. The move could pressure Saudi Arabia as it relies on its East-West Pipeline to export oil amid the Strait of Hormuz being under Iranian control.
- Saudi economy proves resilient to Iran war fallout
Saudi Arabia’s economy remained resilient during the Iran war due to an oil pipeline to the Red Sea and strong fiscal policy. The kingdom reported a current account surplus in Q1 2026, driven by higher oil revenues and reduced imports, while also serving as a transit hub and receiving large foreign inflows.
- Saudi Aramco Q1 profit jumps 26% as key pipeline reaches capacity amid Iran war
Saudi Aramco's Q1 profit increased by 26% due to its East-West pipeline reaching capacity, helping mitigate energy shocks from the Iran war. The pipeline has played a crucial role in stabilizing energy supply. This increase is significant for the company's financial performance.
- Saudi Arabia says key oil pipeline back to full capacity after attacks
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Energy confirmed the East-West oil pipeline has resumed full capacity operations at 7 million barrels per day following recent attacks. The restoration marks a critical recovery for the country's energy infrastructure.
- Saudi Arabia Says East-West Pipeline Restored to Full Capacity
Saudi Arabia has restored the East-West Pipeline to full operational capacity, ensuring uninterrupted energy transportation. This development highlights the country's commitment to maintaining critical infrastructure.