Attacks on Tankers in Strait of Hormuz Reach Seven-Month High

The number of attacks on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz has reached a seven-month high, according to maritime security sources. At least 12 attacks involving oil, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tankers were recorded around the Strait of Hormuz between September 28 and October 5, the highest weekly tally since the conflict began.

Incident Surge

The surge in attacks coincides with an increased export push by Persian Gulf producers. Attacks, attempted attacks, and harassment activity, including drone overflights, surveillance, and hailing using VHF radio by Iran's Revolutionary Guards, have persisted in the strait, according to the US Navy-led Joint Maritime Information Centre (JMIC).

The United Nations' International Maritime Organisation (IMO) confirmed nine incidents in the same week, although the UN body tends to take longer to verify and officially record these incidents, maritime sources say. According to Marine Insight, the IMO recorded nine incidents involving vessels in the same period.

Transit Decline

The heightened attacks have led to a significant drop in the number of vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. According to data from analytics firm Kpler, seven commodity vessels passed through the strait on October 5, the lowest figure since July 23. This decline was driven by a 27% fall in crude crossing the strait compared to the previous week, down to at least 10.1 million barrels a day.

Maritime security sources reported that the Acers, an Antigua and Barbuda-flagged chemical tanker, was hit by multiple projectiles north of Qatar's Madinat ash Shamal on October 5, with minor injuries sustained by its crew. The incident raises concerns about a wider combat area affecting approaches to Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Iraq.

Iran's Strategy

Iran has warned regional countries that any attempt to open new routes for oil exports would be considered hostile, according to a senior regional official close to Tehran. The official stated that Iran has plans to block routes not authorized by the country and has agreed to this strategy with both Iran's political leaders and its Revolutionary Guards.

The diplomat added that Iran plans to continue a policy of fear and threats, involving missile and drone attacks on ships or sending boats to scare ships away. This strategy aims to maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz and deter any attempts to bypass its authority.

Impact on Shipping

The recent spate of Iranian attacks has significantly dampened the appetite of shipowners to sail through the Strait of Hormuz, according to Jakob Larsen, chief safety and security officer at shipping association BIMCO. "The Iranian threat appears to have increased," Larsen noted.

While Gulf of Oman exports have risen to pre-war levels, overall transits through the Strait of Hormuz remain at a fraction of pre-war levels, highlighting the enduring impact of Iran's actions on maritime trade.

What This Means for Operators

Ship operators must closely monitor the evolving security situation in the Strait of Hormuz. Enhanced security measures, such as increased crew training and deployment of additional protective equipment, are imperative. Additionally, routing vessels away from high-risk areas and opting for alternative routes where possible can mitigate risks. Collaboration with maritime security firms and adherence to guidelines issued by the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and the Joint Maritime Information Centre (JMIC) is crucial for ensuring safe passage.

Operators should also maintain constant communication with international maritime authorities and insurers to stay informed of any new threats or security advisories.

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