Hormuz attacks rise as Iran steps up pressure on shipping, UKMTO warns

The Strait of Hormuz has witnessed a surge in attacks and surveillance activities targeting commercial vessels, according to a recent assessment by the Joint Maritime Information Centre (JMIC) in collaboration with the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). From November 1 to November 3, 2026, four attacks were recorded within a 52-hour span, compared to three incidents in the previous reporting period.

These aggressive actions were attributed to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which continued its pattern of attacks, attempted attacks, and surveillance through unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), targeted surveillance, and occasional radio hailing on very high frequency (VHF) channels.

The IRGC's persistent presence along vital maritime transit routes has demonstrated Iran's intent to maintain pressure on commercial shipping operations. Concurrently, the Arabian Gulf also experienced two attacks during the same period, bringing the total number of reported attacks in the area to eight since October 7. Despite these incidents, commercial traffic through the Arabian Gulf continued, though anchorage congestion remained high.

Overall, Hormuz traffic is significantly below pre-conflict levels, with independent tracking data indicating only single-digit to low-double-digit transits daily.

US-assisted transits through the Strait of Hormuz averaged around 31 per day, slightly below the October 24 to 30 average of 34 daily transits. The situation in the Gulf of Oman was less volatile, with no confirmed attacks or disruptions. However, naval activity remained heightened due to the enforcement of the US blockade. The JMIC advised vessels to respond promptly to military inquiries while keeping their Automatic Identification System (AIS) active unless security threats made it unsafe.

According to US Central Command (CENTCOM) figures, 144 commercial vessels were redirected, four disabled, and two boarded during the latest 96-hour period. The assessment underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the global shipping industry, with potential implications for energy transportation costs, insurance premiums, and overall economic stability.