Oil shipments through the contested Strait of Hormuz are increasing, reaching just under 11 million barrels per day on a seven-day average, according to Energy Secretary Chris Wright. This figure is up from 9 million barrels per day just days prior and significantly higher than the 6.1 million barrels per day recorded during a previous 60-day US-Iran memorandum of understanding. However, current transit levels remain below the pre-war average of approximately 15 million barrels per day in 2025.
The increased flow occurs amid escalating turmoil in the Middle East, with crude oil prices climbing above $100 per barrel due to concerns about future supply disruptions. The average price of unleaded gas in the United States was $4.30 per gallon, more than $1 higher than the previous year. The US military is providing coordinated protection for tankers, with analysts suggesting helicopters, fighter jets, and surface drones are guarding against Iranian threats. Since early May, US Central Command spokesman Capt. Tim Hawkins reported that US forces have assisted approximately 1,600 vessels and over 800 million barrels of crude oil through the strait.
Despite the US claims of increasing flows, other reports indicate irregularities and discrepancies. Ship-tracking firm Kpler reported only three ships transiting on a recent Wednesday, down from 12 the previous day and well below the 10-day average of about 17. Meanwhile, LNG shipments are also increasing, with at least two liquefied natural gas tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz this week as producers aim to meet market demand. The US military has destroyed 10 Iranian tankers in the past week in response to Iranian attempts to strike Navy ships.
