Revival of Hejaz Railway Poses New Challenge to Israel-Backed Trade Corridor

DID Press: A new agreement between Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s Türkiye and Saudi Arabia to revive the historic Hejaz Railway has intensified debate over the future of regional trade corridors and competition for strategic transport routes linking Asia and Europe.

Under the proposed plan, the railway would connect the Persian Gulf to Europe through Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Syria and Türkiye. Analysts say the route could emerge as a potential alternative to the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).

Israeli media have reported that some Israeli officials are concerned the project could diminish Israel’s role as a regional transit hub and weaken the strategic importance of the IMEC initiative.

Türkiye, however, views the railway as part of its broader strategy to strengthen its geopolitical position, expand regional connectivity, and enhance transport links between Asia and Europe.

Analysts caution that the project still faces significant obstacles, including Syria’s security situation, the need for substantial investment, and sustained political coordination among the participating countries. They say the railway’s success will depend on overcoming these challenges and creating the conditions necessary for implementation in the coming years.