Iran Escalates Strait of Hormuz Attacks as Oil Flows Remain 55% Below Prewar Levels

Iran has intensified attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, reportedly deploying underwater drones and limpet mines, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Preliminary data from Kpler indicate that oil flows through the waterway averaged approximately 7.8 million barrels per day last week, equivalent to just 45% of prewar volumes.
The security situation has also deteriorated. More than 35 shipping incidents were reported in October, the highest monthly count since the conflict began.
The figures highlight the continuing disruption to one of the world's most important energy shipping routes. Attacks on vessels can increase insurance costs, complicate tanker operations and discourage shipping companies from entering the region.
The latest developments raise concerns about the durability of any recovery in oil shipments, particularly if attacks continue despite diplomatic efforts to contain the conflict.