US Treasury Secretary Says Pipelines Will Make Strait of Hormuz Irrelevant — Energy Experts Push Back

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has claimed that upcoming oil pipeline infrastructure will significantly diminish the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz within the next two years. His remarks concern the narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, long regarded as one of the world's most critical oil transit routes.

Skepticism from the energy sector

Energy experts, however, have expressed doubt that such a shift could realistically occur on this timeline. According to their assessment, alternative pipeline routes designed to bypass the strait are unlikely to fully replace the volume of oil currently transported through it in the near term.

Why the strait matters

The Strait of Hormuz has historically been a focal point of geopolitical tension, given the substantial share of global oil supply that passes through it. Any disruption or threat to shipping in the strait has traditionally raised concerns about impacts on world oil prices and supply security.

Bessent's statement reflects an effort by US officials to highlight the significance of alternative infrastructure projects in the region. However, the disagreement with independent energy analysts suggests the question of whether pipelines can truly supplant the strait's role remains unresolved.