Gulf nations are reevaluating pipeline projects to bypass the Strait of Hormuz amid concerns over Iran's potential control of the strategic waterway. Despite the high costs and political challenges, officials and industry leaders see pipelines as essential to securing oil and gas exports. The strategic importance of Saudi Arabia's East-West Pipeline, which transports 7 million barrels of crude daily to the Red Sea, has been underscored by current geopolitical tensions. Saudi Arabia is considering expanding this pipeline or developing new routes to enhance export capacity.