TotalEnergies has urged Iraq to develop new oil and gas export routes that avoid Hormuz. TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne said Middle East producers need stronger pipeline options. Moreover, he said, regional tensions show the need for safer energy corridors.
Pouyanne discussed the issue during an energy conference in Paris. He pointed to Iraq as a country with several possible export paths.
The Iraq oil routes proposal focuses on giving crude and gas safer access to global markets. It also aims to reduce pressure on the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important energy chokepoints. Therefore, any regional tension can worry oil buyers and shipping companies.
Iraq exports much of its crude through southern outlets near the Gulf. However, stronger alternative routes could give Baghdad more flexibility.
Pouyanne said Iraq can reach global markets through Turkey. In addition, he said Syria could offer another possible route.
He also mentioned future options through the Gulf states. These routes could help Iraq strengthen its role in regional energy trade.
Furthermore, new pipelines could protect exports during maritime disruptions. They could also support more stable energy flows to global buyers.
TotalEnergies sees infrastructure as a major part of energy security. As a result, the company wants countries to invest in stronger export networks.
Pouyanne also pointed to Iraq’s long history with oil infrastructure. He said TotalEnergies extracted oil in Iraq many decades ago.
The company also helped build a pipeline from Iraq to Syria. Then, oil moved from the region to a refinery in southern France.
Pouyanne used that history to support his current argument. He said past projects prove that Iraq can build major energy corridors.
The Iraq oil routes plan could also support Baghdad’s wider export goals. Iraq wants stronger energy revenues and more stable access to markets.
In addition, new pipelines could help Iraq attract foreign investment. Large energy companies often look for secure transport systems before expanding operations.
Energy security now shapes many investment decisions in the Middle East. Therefore, reliable pipelines can carry both economic and strategic value.
For Iraq, alternative routes could reduce dependence on one major maritime path. They could also improve planning during regional crises.
Meanwhile, global oil markets continue to watch the Gulf closely. Any shipping concern near Hormuz can affect prices and supply expectations.
Because of that, Iraq may gain from stronger land-based export networks. These networks could connect Iraqi oil and gas to more destinations.
However, such projects require major coordination. Iraq would need agreements with neighboring countries, investors, and energy firms.
The government would also need strong security planning. In addition, it would need clear rules for transit, fees, and operations.
Even so, Pouyanne argued that Iraq already has historical proof. He said earlier pipeline projects showed what major infrastructure can achieve.
New routes could also support gas exports in the future. Iraq continues to develop gas resources and reduce waste from flaring.
Furthermore, stronger export networks could help Iraq improve its energy position. They could also raise confidence among buyers in Asia and Europe.
The Iraq oil routes discussion now highlights a larger regional challenge. Producers want safer exports, while buyers want stable supplies.
Overall, TotalEnergies sees Iraq as a key player in future energy corridors. With new pipelines, Baghdad could reduce Hormuz risks and expand market access.
