The Iraqi government has approved plans for the state-owned Basra Oil Company to sign agreements with a Chevron-led consortium to develop two new oil export pipelines through Turkey and Syria.

The projects are aimed at expanding Iraq’s crude export network and reducing the country’s dependence on a single shipping route. The move comes as Iraq looks to strengthen its energy security following disruptions to oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.

The planned pipelines will provide alternative routes for Iraqi crude to reach international markets, helping to improve the reliability of exports during periods of regional instability.

The approval is expected to pave the way for the next phase of the projects, with the Chevron-led consortium set to work with Basra Oil Company on the development of the new infrastructure.

Iraq, one of the world’s leading oil producers, has been seeking to diversify its export options as part of broader efforts to safeguard energy supplies and maintain stable oil revenues. The new pipeline projects are expected to play a key role in achieving those goals.