Iran Boosts Oil Exports as It Tightens Control Over Strait of Hormuz

The escalating conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel has reshaped traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints. As Iran’s Revolutionary Guard asserts effective control over the waterway, tanker traffic from several Gulf exporters has slowed sharply, while vessels linked to Iranian crude shipments have continued to transit the strait.

Energy market analyses indicate that Tehran accelerated shipments before and during the early stages of the conflict, moving large volumes of crude through the corridor. Reports suggest that since late February, Iranian‑linked tankers have transported millions of barrels of oil through Hormuz, even as many other cargoes remain stranded or rerouted due to security risks and surging war‑risk insurance costs.

The Strait of Hormuz normally handles roughly 20% of global seaborne oil trade, making any disruption a major concern for energy markets. Military warnings, attacks on vessels and rising geopolitical tensions have significantly reduced overall shipping activity, with numerous tankers waiting outside the strait or seeking alternative routes.

Analysts say Iran’s ability to intimidate rival shipments while allowing its own exports to pass could provide Tehran with a short‑term revenue advantage. However, continued disruption in the strait risks tightening global energy supplies further and could push oil prices higher if the conflict persists.