Turkey Emerges as Key Alternative Route Amid Strait of Hormuz Disruptions

(MENAFN) The near shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz following US and Israeli attacks on Iran, coupled with interruptions to global energy flows, is elevating Türkiye as a critical alternative for pipeline routes and other transit corridors.

Maritime traffic and oil shipments through the Strait have been heavily disrupted due to the conflict in the Middle East. While the waterway has not been officially closed, Iranian authorities have implemented strict controls on vessel movement.

Only ships from certain nations are allowed unrestricted passage, while others may transit under tightly regulated conditions. These restrictions have caused a dramatic shift in regional shipping patterns.

Around 15 million barrels of crude oil that normally move through Hormuz daily are now at risk.

Tanker activity has slowed sharply, with some days seeing no crossings at all, and overall traffic dropping by more than 90%. Rising insurance premiums and heightened security concerns are adding further pressure on shipments.

These disruptions have driven oil prices from roughly $70 per barrel to $120, an increase of nearly 70%. Natural gas prices have surged even more sharply, with Europe’s benchmark TTF gas contracts climbing from around €30 ($34.56) to the €60–€70 ($69–$80.50) range.

Although the International Energy Agency (IEA) member countries have released 400 million barrels from emergency reserves to boost supply, market volatility persists amid fears that the regional conflict could worsen.

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