Iran has increased the pace of attacks on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz in recent days, just as oil shipments through the world’s most important energy chokepoint approach prewar levels.
U.K. Maritime Trade Operations has reported nine attacks in the waterway already this month, half the total number it reported for all of September in the Strait of Hormuz and Persian Gulf combined. Last month’s figure was boosted by four assaults in the final two days, underscoring the recent acceleration.
Vessels in Hormuz have been targeted for much of the Iran war, but with varying degrees of intensity. Previous waves of heavy strikes have led to brief reductions in shipments, though those declines have often been offset by higher volumes in subsequent days.
With your current subscription plan you can comment on stories. However, before writing your first comment, please create a display name in the Profile section of your subscriber account page.