Saudi Oil Exports Hit Record 6 Million Barrels Per Day Amid Conflict

Saudi Arabia's oil exports surged to 6 million barrels per day in September 2026, marking the highest monthly volume since fighting with Iran-backed militants began seven months ago.

The export figures represent an almost 80% increase compared to the 3.4 million barrels per day recorded in August, according to trade intelligence firm Kpler.

Riyadh managed the surge after closing its critical East-West oil pipeline following a drone strike launched from Iraq, which had served as an alternate route to the Red Sea terminal of Yanbu, bypassing the contested Strait of Hormuz.

The shift back to the strait reflects broader changes in regional transit risks and operational logistics during the conflict. Kpler data showed daily oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz averaged 13.2 million barrels per day over a seven-day period on Wednesday.