Middle East energy producers are trying to reduce dependence on the Strait of Hormuz through alternative pipelines and export routes, but they cannot fully replace it due to limited pipeline capacity and the fact that LNG is much harder to reroute than oil. Alternative corridors thus merely shift geopolitical risk rather than eliminating it. Hormuz is also critical beyond energy, affecting fertilizers, helium, agriculture, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. Thus, while redundancy is necessary, it is insufficient: alternative routes must be developed while Hormuz and other major maritime chokepoints remain secure and open.
