Hormuz tanker attacks spike amid rising Gulf exports

Attacks on tankers traversing the Strait of Hormuz reached their highest frequency since the start of the Iran war last week, according to maritime security sources, as Gulf producers ramped up exports, Reuters reported on Wednesday. The US Navy-led Joint Maritime Information Centre's latest note on Sunday confirmed ongoing attacks, attempted attacks, and harassment activities, including drone overflights, surveillance, and VHF radio hailing by Iran's Revolutionary Guards.

These actions underscore Iran's determination to assert dominance along crucial transit routes and continue pressuring vessels navigating the strait. In the week of September 28 to October 5, at least 12 incidents targeted oil, liquefied natural gas, and liquefied petroleum gas tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, marking the highest weekly count since the US-led war against Iran commenced on February 28.

This surge in attacks poses significant energy market concerns, as Iran has repeatedly threatened to close the strait, while the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) recorded nine incidents during the same week. The UN agency often takes longer to verify and officially document such occurrences. The previous comparable period, the week of July 13, saw eight incidents, according to IMO data.

While Gulf oil exporters reached pre-war shipping volumes for about half of September, the persistent attacks and logistical challenges remain a cause for concern about the trajectory of increased flows.