Pipeline Plan Through Syria
Iraq's government said it is working to conclude an agreement with a consortium of international firms led by the US energy company Chevron to move Iraqi crude oil through Syria to the Mediterranean coast. The plan centers on a pipeline feeding the port of Baniyas, which officials described as an additional strategic export corridor for Iraqi oil.
The arrangement remains an anticipated deal rather than a signed contract. Baghdad said it is still seeking to finalize terms with the companies involved.
A Route to the Mediterranean
Routing crude to Baniyas would give Iraq a western outlet on the Mediterranean, shortening the path to European and other markets. For Syria, the plan would position the country as a transit state for a large cross-border flow of oil, with the Baniyas terminal at the center of the proposed corridor.
Two Million Barrels a Day
The export capacity cited for the route reaches up to 2 million barrels per day, a figure attributed to Iraqi official statements. A throughput of that scale would make the line one of the most significant energy links tying Iraq's output to Syrian infrastructure.
Current bilateral trade between the two countries exceeds $250 million, a baseline that the proposed energy cooperation could expand substantially if the pipeline advances.
Damascus Talks
The announcement followed a visit to Damascus by Iraq's prime minister, who was received by President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The two sides discussed oil exports via Baniyas alongside trade, security, and agriculture.
Officials also raised cooperation on water, energy, and the management of shared border crossings, framing the pipeline as one element of a broader economic agenda.
Stakes for Syria's Economy
A functioning transit corridor could channel transit revenue and investment into Syria's coastal energy facilities at a time when the country is working to rebuild its oil sector. The scale of the project, and the involvement of a major international operator, would mark a notable step if the parties move from intent to a binding agreement.