Iran-US Tensions Persist as Strait of Hormuz Remains Volatile
On September 28, the Strait of Hormuz remains highly volatile due to ongoing tensions between Iran and the US. In August, President Trump announced an 'Economic D-Day' operation against the Iranian regime, which has led to increased security measures in the region.
According to United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI), since the start of the Iran War, 85 maritime incidents involving commercial vessels have been reported across the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Gulf of Oman. These incidents have resulted in 24 seafarer deaths.
The US has implemented a blockade on Iranian ports, which has caused around eight handymax-size tankers carrying Iranian LPG and naphtha to successfully pass the blockade line since its reinstatement. However, UANI has not tracked any tanker laden with Iranian crude oil that has successfully departed the Gulf of Oman without enforcement actions by US forces.
UANI's recent trip to the Malaysian Eastern Outer Port Limits (EOPL) anchorage revealed at least 22 Iran-linked tankers and cargo ships in the area. The team observed that despite previous enforcement actions, the illicit activities of the ghost fleet continue unabated.