Saudi Arabia Activates East–West Pipeline at Full Capacity, Bypassing Strait of Hormuz Amid Tensions

Riyadh, March 28, 2026 :

Amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Saudi Aramco has ramped up operations on Saudi Arabia’s strategic East–West crude oil pipeline, pushing it close to its maximum capacity of 7 million barrels per day (bpd). The move is aimed at ensuring uninterrupted oil exports while bypassing the sensitive Strait of Hormuz. The East–West pipeline, also known as Petroline, stretches from the oil-rich Eastern Province to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, allowing crude shipments to avoid the Hormuz chokepoint, which handles a significant portion of global oil trade. Energy analysts note that while the pipeline’s full capacity provides a crucial alternative route, it cannot entirely replace the volume of oil transported through the Strait of Hormuz, where an estimated 15–20 million bpd typically passes. Additionally, export infrastructure limitations at Red Sea terminals may restrict the actual volume of crude that can be shipped despite increased pipeline throughput. The development comes at a time of heightened uncertainty in the region, with concerns over potential disruptions to maritime oil routes. Saudi Arabia’s decision to maximize the use of its inland pipeline highlights its efforts to stabilize global supply and reassure markets. Experts say the move could help cushion immediate shocks in oil supply, but warn that prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz would still have significant implications for global energy market