A tanker was attacked near the northern shores of Qatar, and this incident has raised concerns about the security of the Strait of Hormuz and its impact on the oil market. According to maritime safety reports, the attack was carried out with several rockets while the tanker was moving in the Persian Gulf, about 500 kilometers from the Strait of Hormuz.
Increase in Attacks on Tankers
This attack occurred as reports indicate that attacks on tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz have reached their highest level since the start of the Iran war. Oil prices have also risen above $100 per barrel due to these attacks. In the week ending October 5, at least 12 attacks on tankers carrying oil, liquefied natural gas, and petroleum gas have been recorded around the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran's Threat to Block the Strait of Hormuz
Meanwhile, Tehran has announced that it will close the routes of the Strait of Hormuz, which it considers illegal. Mohammad Reza Naqdi, advisor to the commander of the Revolutionary Guards, stated that the Iranian Navy has full control over the Strait of Hormuz. He also referred to the existence of small routes created for oil smuggling and emphasized that these routes are being used illegally.
These developments come as the United States and Israel are planning further attacks on Iran, adding more pressure on the Trump administration. In the past week, another aircraft carrier has been deployed to the region, and there is a possibility that three carriers will operate in the area by the end of October.
Economic and Political Consequences
With ongoing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, oil prices have risen due to supply and demand concerns, impacting the global economy. Additionally, the increase in attacks on tankers and Iran's threats to block the strait could lead to instability in the oil market. For the United States, this situation means rising fuel prices and pressure on the domestic economy.
Meanwhile, Iran has strongly rejected the statements of American officials and emphasized that it will maintain its control over the Strait of Hormuz. However, American officials claim that Iran has lost its control over the region and continues to seek influence over the global oil market.
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