Middle East crude oil exports reached between 19.5 to 22.5 million barrels per day in the last four days of Shahrivar 1402. This figure indicates an increase in exports compared to the average of 18 million barrels per day before the onset of hostilities between the United States and Israel and the Islamic Republic. This increase has occurred amid ongoing attacks on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Details of Crude Oil Exports
According to preliminary data from the ship tracking company Kpler, the average crude oil exports from the Middle East reached 18.5 million barrels per day on October 1. This figure includes transit through the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea, exports from marine terminals, and ship-to-ship transfers in the Sea of Oman. Crude oil exports on October 2 and also during the period from October 5 to 7 reached their highest levels in recent months.
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Attacks and Security Threats
On October 1, the giant Kuwaiti oil tanker Kazmah-3 was targeted by an unknown projectile while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in a fire on the vessel. The UK Maritime Trade Operations has reported at least one of these attacks daily in the Strait of Hormuz or the Gulf of Aden since October 1. These attacks have raised new concerns regarding maritime security and oil trade in the region.
However, current information suggests that the recent pattern of events does not necessarily indicate the deliberate targeting of selected commercial vessels. Experts state that mere physical presence in the conflict zone at a specific time can be a primary factor putting vessels at risk.
The number of liquefied gas shipments exiting the Strait of Hormuz also reached its highest monthly level since Esfand 1401. It appears that despite security challenges, oil and gas exports from the Middle East continue to rise, and this trend could have significant impacts on global energy markets.
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