The Strait of Hormuz saw its highest weekly number of attacks on oil, LNG and LPG tankers since the Iran war began, as Iran's Revolutionary Guards continued to target or harass vessels transiting one of the world's most critical energy corridors.
At least 12 attacks were reported around the strait during the week of September 28 to October 5, according to three maritime security sources tracking incidents and analysing information received from the region.
Reuters citing the US Navy-led Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC) reported that the incidents included attacks, attempted attacks and harassment involving drone overflights, surveillance and radio hailing.
“These actions continue to demonstrate Iran's intent to assert presence along key transit lanes and maintain pressure on transiting vessels,” the JMIC said.
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The latest tally marks the highest number of such incidents recorded in a single week since the US war with Iran began on February 28, the maritime security sources said.
According to Reuters, separate data compiled by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the United Nations' shipping agency, showed nine incidents involving vessels in and around the strait during the same week.
The IMO's figure is lower because the UN body generally takes longer to verify incidents before formally recording them, maritime sources said.
According to the report, the closest comparable period came during the week of July 13, when the IMO recorded eight incidents.
The escalation comes even as Gulf oil producers have stepped up exports. Shipping data showed that crude oil exports from Gulf producers were above pre-war levels for roughly half of September, according to Reuters.
However, the higher export volumes are being accompanied by growing risks for shipping companies, with repeated attacks and logistical constraints raising questions over whether the stronger flows can be sustained.
Reuters reported that the latest incident involving an Indian-linked vessel has added to concerns over the security of the route.
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India's foreign ministry said on Tuesday that 12 crew members were injured after an unknown projectile struck the Panama-flagged oil tanker On Peace while it was transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
The strait is a vital global energy chokepoint, connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the wider Arabian Sea. Any sustained disruption to shipping through the waterway could have wider implications for crude oil, LNG and LPG supplies, as well as freight and insurance costs.
With tanker traffic continuing despite the heightened risks, the latest surge in incidents highlights the growing security challenge facing vessels navigating the strategic waterway.
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