Energy, Power, and the Strait of Hormuz: Dr. John V. Bowlus on ANews’ Turkey’s Diplomacy

Dr. John V. Bowlus joins ANews’ Turkey’s Diplomacy with Umar Tasleem to unpack Iran’s renewed threats in the Strait of Hormuz, shifting global energy alliances, and the region’s path toward pragmatic cooperation.

Key Takeaways

• Energy Cooperation Is Driving Regional Diplomacy. Beyond profit, these projects serve a geopolitical purpose — enabling collaboration between countries that have historically been rivals. Energy is becoming a bridge for peace, fostering pragmatic engagement over ideological divides.

• The Israel–Egypt “Gas Nexus” Is Deepening. The new $610 million Nitsana pipeline builds on August’s $35 billion expansion deal, strengthening a long-standing partnership between Israel and Egypt. It reflects how energy interdependence can reinforce diplomatic and economic stability in the region.

• Infrastructure Is Now a Tool of Power. Pipelines, trade corridors, and minerals agreements aren’t just economic deals — they’re strategic instruments that shape regional influence and global alignments from the Middle East to Eastern Europe.

• The Post-Russia Energy Map Is Taking Shape. As Europe continues to diversify away from Russian hydrocarbons, new supply routes through the Eastern Mediterranean and Gulf are gaining importance. The Middle East is reclaiming a central role in the world’s energy future.