Syria resumes oil extraction at newly secured fields to boost energy supply

Cairo – Syria has begun extracting crude oil from fields that recently came under government control, marking a significant step toward restoring domestic energy production after years of disruption.

The move is being presented as part of a broader effort to stabilize fuel supplies and revive key economic sectors strained by prolonged conflict.

According to official information, the Syrian Petroleum Company has started operations at multiple oilfields and is transporting the extracted crude to the Homs and Baniyas refineries for processing.

These refineries are among the country’s most important energy facilities and play a central role in supplying fuel for electricity generation, transportation, and industry.

One of the most notable developments is the restart of production at the Al Omar oilfield. Al Omar is the largest oilfield in Syria and has long been considered a strategic energy asset due to its high output potential.

The field recently came under government control following a swift military operation in eastern Syria. For nearly a decade, it had been held by Kurdish-led forces and was also used as a fortified military base during the conflict.

Regaining access to Al Omar is seen as a turning point for Syria’s oil sector. Before the war, the field contributed significantly to national production and was a major source of state revenue.

Energy analysts say restarting extraction, even at limited capacity, could ease fuel shortages that have affected daily life across the country.
Syria has faced chronic shortages of diesel, gasoline, and heating fuel, particularly during winter months.

The government has relied heavily on imports and limited domestic production in recent years. Both options have been constrained by infrastructure damage, financial pressure, and logistical challenges.

By channeling crude oil directly to domestic refineries, authorities aim to reduce dependence on costly imports. This approach is also expected to improve the availability of refined products for households and businesses.

Officials say the initial phase of extraction will focus on restoring basic operational capacity. Technical teams are reportedly assessing infrastructure damage and working to secure pipelines, pumping stations, and storage facilities.

The oilfields in eastern Syria suffered years of neglect and conflict related damage. Restoration efforts are likely to take time and require significant technical and financial resources.

Despite these challenges, the government views the restart of oil extraction as a signal of regained control over strategic resources. It also reinforces claims of consolidating authority over key economic zones previously outside central control.

Oil revenues, even at modest levels, could provide much needed support to the state budget. They may help fund public services, fuel subsidies, and reconstruction projects in affected areas.

Local communities near the oilfields are also watching developments closely. Many residents hope that renewed production will bring employment opportunities and improved local services.

However, concerns remain about environmental management and fair distribution of benefits. Past conflicts over resource control have left deep scars in oil producing regions.

International observers note that Syria’s overall oil output remains far below pre war levels. Before 2011, the country produced hundreds of thousands of barrels per day, most of which were exported.

Current production is expected to cover only a fraction of domestic demand. Even so, officials argue that every increase in local output reduces pressure on the economy.

The restart of extraction also has regional implications. Control over energy resources has been a major factor in Syria’s shifting military and political landscape.

By securing major oilfields, the government strengthens its negotiating position in future political talks. Energy assets are often viewed as leverage in discussions over reconstruction and international engagement.

While challenges persist, the move to resume oil extraction signals a new phase for Syria’s energy sector. Authorities say further announcements are expected as more fields are assessed and brought back online.

The coming months will determine whether production can be sustained and gradually expanded. For now, the restart at newly controlled fields represents a cautious but symbolic step toward economic recovery.