Iran Escalates Tanker Attacks in Strait of Hormuz

Iran has escalated its attacks on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, striking another vessel over the weekend. The latest target was the Lipsi, a newly launched LR2 tanker operated by a Greek company and owned by a Chinese entity. Reports indicate the tanker suffered engine room damage.

The recent surge in attacks has reached nearly one tanker per day, disrupting the critical shipping route that handles over 12 million barrels of oil daily. This follows a period of relative calm, with the Strait of Hormuz seeing five tankers hit in just four days, including two Kuwaiti state-owned vessels.

Analysts suggest Iran's improved ship-targeting capabilities and the absence of U.S. counterattacks may be contributing to the increased aggression. Despite the threats, satellite imagery shows tanker traffic continuing through the U.S.-protected southern waterway, with some vessels transiting during daylight hours.

Other maritime incidents include a Turkish-operated bulk carrier disabled near Novorossiysk and the recovery of two hijacked tankers off Somalia. The ongoing tensions highlight the fragile security of key global shipping lanes.