Saudi Aramco, the state-owned oil giant of Saudi Arabia, reported a 26% increase in profits, totaling $33.6 billion for the first quarter of 2023. This surge comes as the company navigates challenges from ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, particularly affecting oil shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been largely closed due to the US-Iran conflict. Despite these adversities, Aramco's revenue rose nearly 7% year-on-year to $115.5 billion. The company's east-west pipeline, which can transport up to 7 million barrels of oil per day, has been pivotal in mitigating the impact of global energy disruptions. Brent crude oil prices have spiked to around $100 per barrel, reflecting a 40% increase since the onset of the conflict. Aramco's president, Amin Nasser, emphasized the long-term implications of the strait's blockade, predicting that market normalization could take until 2027 if disruptions continue. Additionally, Aramco has decided to maintain its quarterly dividend at $21.9 billion, crucial for funding Saudi Arabia's domestic spending, given that the government holds over 80% ownership of the company.