Iran Expands Tanker Attacks in Strait of Hormuz, Threatening Persian Gulf Oil Exports

Iran has expanded attacks on tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz, stoking concern over crude exports from the Persian Gulf. About 20 commercial vessels have reportedly come under attack over the past month.

Crypto-focused media outlet Cointelegraph reported on Oct. 6 that attacks targeting commercial ships have continued near the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf and waters off Oman. At least seven tanker-related attacks were reported in the past week alone.

The concentration of attacks is again threatening the Middle East's recent recovery in crude exports. The region's oil exports in September had nearly returned to prewar levels, but security risks and higher costs tied to maritime transport have persisted.

Further attacks have also been reported in the Strait of Hormuz. In one recent incident, a tanker was struck by an unidentified projectile, causing a fire in its engine room. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, or UKMTO, issued four related attack alerts on Oct. 5 alone.