Some oil companies to avoid ships on Iran blacklist, sources say

Three Indian oil refiners and a major global energy company are reportedly considering discontinuing the use of ships on Iran's recently created blacklist, according to four sources with knowledge of the matter. Tehran announced the blacklist of 45 ships that violated rules for crossing the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to penalize any vessels transferring loads with them.

This move comes six months into the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran and aims to disrupt the Gulf oil producers' shuttle runs, which have kept oil flowing despite Iran's restrictions on shipping through the strait. The named vessels could face fines, detention, and confiscated cargoes, according to Iran's Persian Gulf Strait Authority. The sources, who declined to be identified due to the sensitivity of the issue, said some of the tankers on the list are owned or chartered by Saudi Aramco and Abu Dhabi National Oil Co (ADNOC).

Shipping data indicates these ships have been used for transferring crude, refined products, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) out of the Gulf for STS transfer. Experts predict that compliance-conscious buyers will avoid these vessels, but the trade may adapt by rerouting through alternative tonnage or transfer locations, rather than ceasing altogether.

Some charterers and shipping firms are evaluating Iran's warning to decide whether to continue STS operations.