Saudi Aramco reports first-quarter profit increases of about 25–26% compared with the same period last year, citing operational changes that help sustain exports amid disruptions linked to the Iran war. Multiple outlets say Aramco is using its East-West pipeline to move more crude oil while avoiding shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait of Hormuz is described as having been disrupted, raising shipping and supply risks connected to the wider regional conflict. According to reports, the East-West pipeline enables Aramco to keep pumping and move barrels to alternative routes as demand and market access are affected. Financial Times and CNBC both tie the profit performance to the pipeline’s role in reducing the energy shock associated with the Iran war, noting the pipeline reaches or approaches capacity as exports are redirected. The Washington Times similarly attributes the profit rise to increased export volumes achieved through the East-West pipeline that circumvents Hormuz. Overall, outlets present the same central linkage: Aramco’s higher quarterly earnings coincide with increased reliance on the East-West pipeline to maintain export flows despite pressures on key sea lanes.