The recent escalation of attacks by Iran on oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz has created a 'worst-case scenario' for maritime operations, according to Dimitris Maniatis, CEO of Marisks. Since July 6, at least nine ships have been attacked, resulting in casualties among crew members.
The attacks have heightened fears among seafarers, leading to a significant reduction in vessel transits through the strait, which is crucial for global oil transport. Data from Kpler indicates that traffic has dropped to a three-week low, with only eight ships transiting on Thursday, down from 15 the previous day.
This decline follows a period when over 100 ships crossed Hormuz daily before recent military actions by the U.S. and Israel against Iran. The U.S. has reimposed a naval blockade and conducted airstrikes in response to the attacks, further complicating the situation.
President Trump stated that Hormuz remains open to all ships except those from Iran, but the reality on the ground suggests a significant risk that is deterring shipping companies. Analysts warn that without reliable assurances of safety from both the U.S. and Iran, traffic through Hormuz may not recover, impacting oil supply chains and potentially leading to higher oil prices