uwait’s oil exports have come to a complete halt following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, Oil Minister Tariq Al Roumi said. With exports currently at zero, Kuwait has begun discussions with neighbouring countries on alternative pipeline routes to reduce its dependence on the strategic waterway. The country is considering two options — a pipeline through Saudi Arabia to the Red Sea and another route connecting Kuwait to the UAE’s Fujairah port.
The minister said Kuwait’s location at the northern end of the Gulf makes it particularly vulnerable to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, Iran and Oman are reportedly in the final stages of discussions over temporarily reopening the strait, although Iran has linked such a move to the lifting of US restrictions on its ports. Shipping activity through the region currently remains significantly below previous levels.
Separately, a new international naval defence coalition led by Saudi Arabia has been formed to strengthen maritime security, with Rear Admiral Abdullah Al Shehri appointed as its commander. The coalition aims to ensure the safe passage of vessels and protect international trade routes, with more countries expected to join in the coming days.
