Tanker attacks in Strait of Hormuz hit wartime high as Iran tries to curb oil exports

• Eleven tankers were attacked in one week (ending Oct. 4), with another five hit the following week; 12 sailors were injured Monday when a projectile struck their tanker
• Middle East crude exports rebounded to prewar levels in September but have since pulled back 40% below normal through Hormuz (8.5 million bpd) as attacks intensified
• At least 24 sailors have died in attacks on 100 commercial ships since the war began in late February, with Iran warning it will pursue ships throughout the Persian Gulf that violate its transit rules

Summary: Tanker Attacks in Strait of Hormuz Reach Wartime High

Key Developments:

Iranian attacks on oil tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz have surged to wartime highs, with 11 tankers struck during the week ending October 4—the most since the conflict began in late February. An additional five tankers were attacked the following week, including a Monday incident that injured 12 Indian sailors aboard the UAE-owned vessel On Peace.

Casualty Toll:

At least 24 sailors have died in attacks on 100 commercial ships across Hormuz, the Persian Gulf, and Gulf of Oman since the war started. Nine sailors have died since July alone, prompting industry experts to declare the situation "not a sustainable new normal."

Strategic Context:

Iran is attempting to choke off a rebound in Middle East crude exports, which reached prewar levels in September. The U.S. military has been escorting tankers through Hormuz using routes along Oman's coast, enabling continued oil flows despite heightened risk. Iranian Revolutionary Guard officials warned Wednesday they will block all "illicit routes" and pursue violating vessels throughout the Persian Gulf region.

Export Impact:

Current crude flows through Hormuz stand at 8.5 million barrels per day (bpd), approximately 40% below prewar levels. Total Middle East shipments reached 15.3 million bpd—10% below normal. Iran has not exported crude since late August due to U.S. naval blockade.

Market Implications:

Maritime risk remains extremely high despite continued shipments. Recent attacks have expanded deeper into the Persian Gulf, including strikes off Qatar and the UAE coast, threatening critical global oil supply routes and raising insurance and shipping costs for energy markets.