The number of attacks on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz last week reached the highest weekly level since the start of the Iran war. This comes as Gulf oil-producing countries are trying to increase their energy exports.
Statistics on Attacks on Tankers
According to information from three maritime security sources, at least 12 attacks on tankers and ships carrying liquefied natural gas and liquefied gas were recorded in the Strait of Hormuz and its surroundings from September 28 to October 5. This is the highest weekly figure since the start of the U.S. war with the Islamic Republic on February 28, 2025.
Read more: Saudi Arabia Increased Exports by Rapidly Reviving Oil Pipeline
Actions of the Revolutionary Guards
The Joint Maritime Information Center, led by the U.S. Navy, announced that the attacks, attempts to attack, and provocative actions by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, including drone flights over ships, monitoring them, and radio contact with vessels, have continued in the Strait of Hormuz. The center stated: "These actions continue to demonstrate Iran's intent to solidify its presence in key shipping routes and maintain pressure on passing vessels."
Energy Export Status
Separate statistics from the International Maritime Organization, a UN agency, indicate 9 incidents for ships during the same period. According to maritime sources, this organization typically requires more time to confirm and officially record incidents. Previously, the highest similar figure was for the week ending July 13, which recorded eight incidents.
The increase in attacks comes at a time when oil exports from Gulf countries exceeded pre-war levels during part of September, although attacks on ships and logistical issues have raised doubts about the ability to maintain this level of exports.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs announced on Tuesday that 12 crew members of the Panama-flagged tanker "An Peace" were injured after an unidentified projectile struck the vessel while passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Before the war began, the Strait of Hormuz was a transit point for about one-fifth of the world's oil supply, and ongoing insecurity in this strategic waterway remains one of the most significant risks for regional energy exports and global markets.
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