I've been following Pepe for many years. In essence, he has given me the framework with his 'Pipelineistan' concept, which to my mind still stands. Why? Because, I was in the business. Apart from his rock'n'roll politics during those distant days of when he used to publish in the Rolling Stone.
Re: Pepe Escobar: Iran’s military Prepares and EU Goes all in
I am afraid it is very much easier for me to use an ai to answer that:
The concept of "Pipelineistan" was coined by journalist Pepe Escobar. He uses this term to describe the extensive network of oil and gas pipelines that traverse critical geopolitical regions, particularly in Central Asia and the Middle East. Escobar argues that the control and flow of energy resources in these areas are central to international conflicts and geopolitical strategies.
And:
Definition of Pipelineistan
Pipelineistan refers to the network of oil and gas pipelines that traverse Eurasia, forming a crucial part of the region's energy infrastructure. This term highlights the geopolitical significance of these pipelines in global energy supply and trade.
Key Features Energy Reserves
Russia's Dominance: 45% of the world's natural gas 13% of the world's oil 23% of the world's coal 14% of the world's uranium
Major Players Gazprom: Russia's state-owned company with a monopoly on natural gas exports. Key player in major pipeline projects, including agreements with China for gas supply.
Notable Pipelines Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India (TAPI) Pipeline: A significant project transporting gas from Turkmenistan through Afghanistan to Pakistan and India. Length: 1,814 km (1,127 miles). Aims to provide an independent energy route avoiding reliance on Russian pipelines.
Geopolitical Implications Pipelineistan is not just about energy supply; it also influences international relations. The agreements and projects in this region can shift the balance of power, particularly as countries like China and India seek alternatives to Middle Eastern energy sources.
Since I travelled a lot in these regions, I can confirm this is true. Pepe first used this term 'pipelineistan' in late 90s.
Now he is focussing more on the New Silk Road concept. In essence another geopolitical viewpoint if you like.
on October 22, 2025, 12:45 pm