On September 21, 2026, Iran targeted another oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. According to reports, this incident resulted in the injury of two crew members of the LR Stephanie tanker. This tanker, which has a capacity of 72,825 tons and is registered in the Isle of Man, was heading into the Strait of Hormuz and is currently located in the Persian Gulf.
Incident Details and Tanker Status
This incident marks at least the fourth case of attacks on oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz since September 17. Previously, the MT Trend and STI Steadfast tankers had also been targeted. Additionally, reports from Indian media indicate that an LPG tanker named Al Maryah, working for ADNOC, has also recently been targeted. In this incident, two crew members of the LR Stephanie tanker sustained minor injuries, but the tanker continued on its course.
Read more: Establishment of a Dedicated Route for Tankers at the Shahran Oil Depot
Analysis of Maritime Traffic and Military Responses
Despite these attacks, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has released a report indicating that oil traffic continues and is “increasing.” However, independent data shows that commercial traffic in the Strait of Hormuz has remained at lower levels. According to JMIC, tanker traffic has decreased from three tankers per day since September 13, with some days seeing no tankers passing through the Strait.
Admiral Brad Cooper, the CENTCOM commander, stated in a video update that oil exports have surpassed one billion barrels in the past two months, indicating cooperation with over 2,000 commercial vessels to facilitate traffic in the region. However, Kpler data indicates that only 17 vessels passed through the Strait last weekend, a significant decrease from 37 vessels the previous week.
Iran continues to report its control over the Strait of Hormuz, claiming that only vessels with specific permits are allowed to navigate this waterway. This situation clearly reflects the increasing tensions in the region and its impact on global maritime traffic.
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