Persian Gulf oil exports top pre-war levels even as Iranian attacks on Hormuz shipping rise

Oil exports from Persian Gulf countries reached 24.6 million barrels per day in the week ending 18 October, above the pre-war average of 23.3 million, according to energy analytics firm Kpler. The rise came as Iranian attacks on shipping increased: the UK Maritime Trade Operations reported at least 12 attacks last week and at least 30 ships attacked in October. A fully laden UAE-owned container ship sank last week in the Strait of Hormuz after likely being hit by a projectile. Preliminary figures show about 14 million barrels a day crossed the Strait and Gulf of Oman, roughly 82% of pre-war flow. The war began on 28 February, and the US and Israel have threatened a new attack.

Left-leaning outlets had not reported this story at the time of writing; alternative/independent and right-leaning outlets had. Middle East Eye frames the exports as a challenge to Iran's bid to control Hormuz, while MarketWatch stresses a fragile recovery and prices that may stay high. The New York Post emphasizes shippers adapting, US naval protection, near-record freight costs and an economist's comments.