Gulf Countries Use Secret Oil Transport Through Strait of Hormuz
Gulf countries have found an innovative way to transport oil through the Strait of Hormuz, despite ongoing tensions in the region. According to a report by Bloomberg, more than 4 million barrels of oil per day are being secretly transported on vessels without active transponders.
This 'dark fleet' uses tankers with their transponders switched off to reduce risks associated with operating in the conflict zone. The cargo is then transferred to other vessels in the Gulf of Oman, allowing for continued oil transportation.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway that connects the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, with approximately 20% of global oil supplies passing through it. Iran's announcement on July 12 of a blockade of the strait raised concerns about energy prices.