Attacks on ships transiting Hormuz in October highest since start of war

In October, the number of attacks on commercial ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz surged to a peak in the ongoing Iran-US conflict, with over 30 incidents reported, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). This marked a significant rise compared to September's total and even tripled the incidents recorded in March, the first month of the war.

Since the war's commencement, the UKMTO has logged 145 such incidents, though the true count may be higher, as it only considers reports from verified vessels. A recent incident involved a crude oil tanker being hit by an unknown projectile while transiting the strait. Iran's Revolutionary Guards Navy has alleged that four oil tankers caught fire and exploded within the Hormuz Strait over the weekend.

The attacks follow US Central Command's statement that over 95% of ships navigating the Hormuz Strait have successfully passed through recently, despite US forces maintaining a naval blockade on Iranian ports and terminals. US Central Command's Admiral Brad Cooper, who toured the region recently, claimed to see numerous commercial vessels, including cargo, oil, and LNG ships, being escorted by US assets.

However, he did not observe Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) presence. Simultaneously, Israeli media reported that Israel's defense establishment is preparing for another potential conflict, either defensively or offensively. The preparations coincide with a significant US military buildup in the region, comprising 12 destroyers, two aircraft carriers, and heightened military air traffic.

Israeli officials noted these developments are preliminary, intended to offer President Trump military options if he decides to act. However, Israel is updating its list of potential targets in Iran and preparing for possible retaliation in case of a US attack.