Strategic Realignment of the Persian Gulf Energy Supply Network

A Comprehensive Research Report on the "Four Seas Project" and the U.S. "Plan B"

 (FY2026 Edition)

Prepared by: Daisaku Shimizu, Senior Fellow 
National Policy Research Center (NPRC)

Executive Summary

In the first quarter of 2026, the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East and West Asia reached a historic turning point. "Operation Epic Fury," a joint military campaign launched by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28, 2026, resulted in the dismantling of the Iranian leadership and a de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz—an unprecedented crisis for global stability.

In response, the U.S. government is accelerating the revival and expansion of the "Four Seas Project," originally proposed by Turkey. This initiative serves as "Plan B," designed to mitigate dependence on Persian Gulf oil and gas resources by establishing an entirely new energy corridor.

This report provides a detailed professional analysis of the military background, economic rationale, and the emerging geopolitical framework centered on the interim government of Syria and the strategic role of Turkey.

[Special Contribution] Strategic Realignment of the Persian Gulf Energy Supply Network

A Comprehensive Research Report on the "Four Seas Project" and the U.S. "Plan B" (FY2026 Edition)

Introduction: The Dawn of Geopolitical Disruption in 2026

The first quarter of 2026 has marked a structural shift in the West Asian strategic balance. Following the onset of "Operation Epic Fury," the world’s primary energy artery—the Strait of Hormuz—was effectively severed, paralyzing global supply chains. To circumvent this "strategic bottleneck," Washington has pivoted toward the Four Seas Project.

Chapter 1: The Blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and Global Economic Shock

In retaliation for military strikes, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Utilizing both physical force and electromagnetic warfare—including GNSS jamming—the blockade has successfully incapacitated the world’s most critical energy transit point, leading to record-high crude prices.

Chapter 2: The "Four Seas Project"

 — The U.S. Plan B

The core of "Plan B" is to bypass the Persian Gulf by integrating four strategic bodies of water into a unified infrastructure network:

• The Black Sea
• The Sea of Marmara
• The Aegean Sea
• The Mediterranean Sea

The Barrack Doctrine: U.S. Special Envoy Tom Barrack emphasizes a shift from "vulnerable pipelines" to "energy corridors under a robust security framework," positioning a post-sanctions Syria as the central hub of this new order.

Chapter 3: The Rebirth of Syria and Turkey’s Strategic Hub Ambitions

The success of the Four Seas Project hinges on the stability of Syria and the leadership of Turkey.

1. The Ahmed al-Sharaa Interim Government: Following the collapse of the Assad regime in 2025, the technocratic government led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa is prioritizing rapid national reconstruction and reintegration into the international community.
2. Turkey as Energy Gatekeeper: Turkey has redefined itself as the indispensable hub connecting Europe and the Middle East, securing NATO’s southern flank while leading infrastructure development in the region.

Chapter 4: Financial and Capital Mobilization — "Corporate Peace"

This massive infrastructure undertaking requires private capital exceeding government budgets.

• BlackRock’s Involvement: The world’s largest asset manager is accelerating investment into these reconstruction markets, viewing them as long-term global investment assets.
• Economic Rationale: Initial phases prioritize LNG terminals along the Mediterranean coast (Baniyas and Tartus), eventually evolving into "Next-Generation Pipelines" with advanced security features.

A New Geopolitical Map

The Four Seas Project is not merely a backup supply route; it is a blueprint for a "New Middle East Order" where military, political, financial, and technological sectors are highly integrated.

• Transformation of U.S. Strategy: A shift from "World’s Policeman" to "Architect of Energy Geopolitics."
• European Energy Autonomy: Achieving total independence from Russian energy through the overland supply of Persian Gulf resources via Syria and Turkey.

Note of Caution: This grand plan remains subject to the risks of Iranian retaliation and internal Syrian instability. We must remain vigilant in observing whether this new corridor becomes a true "Sea of Peace" or a catalyst for further conflict.

[Disclaimer] This report is based on currently available data and geopolitical analysis as of Q1 2026 and does not definitively predict future events. For investment or strategic decisions, please consult the latest information from respective specialized fields.