Attacks on oil tankers and commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most important oil transit routes in the world, have significantly increased. According to reports, Brent oil prices remain high as a result of these developments.
Details of Recent Attacks
A container ship was attacked yesterday while passing into the Strait of Hormuz, sustaining minor damage. It has also been reported that another container ship was targeted by an unknown projectile while passing out of the strait, suffering similar damage. This information has been released by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).
Between October 11 and 14, UKMTO reported at least 11 incidents in the Persian Gulf. Yesterday, about 10 ships were passing through the Strait of Hormuz, including 6 ships entering and 4 ships exiting. One of these ships was also operating in 'dark mode'.
Expansion of Attacks to Other Areas
According to Windward, attacks on oil tankers have not been limited to the Strait of Hormuz and have expanded to other areas. On October 7, tankers were targeted near Qatar, and on October 8, attacks occurred east of Fujairah. Additionally, on October 9, tankers anchoring in the United Arab Emirates were attacked, and on October 11, attacks took place near Sohar.
Meanwhile, the ambassador of Tehran to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has claimed that the United States military is using 'threatening' and 'provocative' language against Iranian sailors, causing 'serious stress' for them. However, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has firmly denied these allegations, calling them false and fabricated.
CENTCOM has emphasized that it maintains full control over this narrow corridor and regularly coordinates escorts for compliant vessels. This entity has stated that commercial traffic continues with the coordinated support of American forces and regional partners through the Strait of Hormuz.
Since July 14, CENTCOM has established a blockade for ships seeking to enter or exit Iranian ports. This operation has resulted in the rerouting of 135 commercial vessels, the deactivation of 4 ships, and the inspection of 2 ships. Recently, CENTCOM has destroyed an Iranian drone related to monitoring and targeting U.S. Navy ships in the Gulf of Oman.
Read more: Russian Attacks on Ukraine's Energy Infrastructure Leave 600,000 Without Power · Oil Prices Rise Following Iranian Attacks in the Strait of Hormuz
