October Sees Highest Ship Attacks in Strait of Hormuz Since War's Start

Commercial vessel attacks in and around the Strait of Hormuz surged in October, reaching the highest monthly total since the commencement of the Iran-US war, with over 30 incidents reported, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). This data from the British navy-affiliated agency stands in contrast to repeated US assertions that the strategic waterway remains open and secured by its forces.

UKMTO data indicates that the number of reported attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman, and Arabian Gulf more than doubled September's figures and surpassed even March, the first full month of the conflict, which recorded 30 attacks. Since the war began, UKMTO has reported a total of 145 incidents. The actual number of attacks may be higher, as the agency only includes incidents reported by verified vessels operating in the region.

On Friday, a crude oil tanker was struck by an unknown projectile while completing an outbound transit of the Strait of Hormuz. UKMTO confirmed receiving a report of the incident and stated that authorities are investigating, advising vessels to proceed with caution. Iran's Revolutionary Guards Navy claimed that four oil tankers caught fire and exploded in the Strait of Hormuz between Friday and Saturday.

These attacks occur despite recent statements from the US Central Command indicating that over 95 percent of ships navigating the Strait of Hormuz have passed safely in recent months, which they attribute to the control exercised by the United States and its regional partners over the international waterway. Admiral Brad Cooper, Centcom's commander, visited the region this week, where over 10,000 US forces are enforcing a naval blockade on Iranian ports and oil terminals. He observed numerous commercial vessels transiting the strait and noted the absence of the IRGC.

His visit coincided with reports of preparations for renewed conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran. Israeli media suggests that Israel's defense establishment is preparing for a potential new round of conflict, both offensively and defensively, although US President Donald Trump has not yet decided on launching a new military campaign. These preparations align with a significant US military buildup in the region, including destroyers, aircraft carriers, and increased military air traffic. Israeli security officials emphasized that these developments are preliminary and aim to provide Mr. Trump with military options. Israel is also updating its target lists in Iran and preparing for possible Iranian retaliation in the event of a US attack.