At least six merchant vessels were attacked on Monday in the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding areas. According to data from the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and international maritime security sources.
According to these reports, approximately 18 merchant vessels were targeted during the first 12 days of October. Between the 5th and the 12th of the month, at least 14 attacks. Attempted attacks, and interceptions were recorded in the area.
Reports and statements from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps point to an increase in operations against commercial vessels since the resumption of hostilities between Tehran and Washington.
According to the cited data, at least 12 attacks on oil tankers and cargo ships were recorded in July. While at least 10 vessels—including oil and gas tankers—were attacked in August off the coasts of Fujairah (United Arab Emirates) and Sohar (Oman).
In September, the figure rose to 18 vessels, amidst a situation where the United States and Persian Gulf nations resorted to ship-to-ship oil transfers. Using small craft to move crude oil to larger tankers in areas considered safer.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps characterized these operations as oil smuggling and attempts to evade the naval blockade in the strait. It also expanded its operations to include supply vessels, tugboats, and smaller oil tankers in the Persian Gulf.
Also the Iranian force further claimed that some vessels sustained damage from explosions after striking naval mines while navigating routes Tehran deems unsafe. However, the circumstances of each incident and responsibility for the attacks have not been independently established in every case.
Iranian authorities justify their operations as a response to the U.S. naval blockade and have warned vessels against. Using unauthorized routes or traversing specific zones without prior coordination of their passage.
Since April 2026, Iran has imposed restrictions on navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Including the designation of specific routes and a requirement for prior coordination with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy.
On May 30th, Tehran announced that vessels must obtain authorization from that force to cross the waterway.
This escalation is taking place amidst tensions between Iran and the United States. Regarding control and security in this strategic corridor for the global transport of oil and other goods.
In conclusion the war began on February 28th with attacks by the United States and Israel against Iran. Although a ceasefire was reached in April, hostilities subsequently resumed. And negotiations remain stalled despite the signing of a memorandum of understanding in mid-June.
With information from Prensa Latina
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