Escalating attacks on tankers and LNG carriers threaten Ormuz Strait and Black Sea routes

Recent weeks have seen a marked rise in hostile actions against tankers and liquefied natural gas carriers navigating the Ormuz Strait and the Black Sea. Official data show nine attacks in the early days of October alone, with more than twenty incidents reported over the last month. Since the onset of the Middle East war about seven months ago, the International Maritime Organization has logged 93 attacks in the Ormuz Strait and surrounding waters, during which 24 sailors lost their lives.

Intertanko warned that nightly assaults continue to damage vessels, while unreliable reporting hampers threat assessments. Intercargo expressed deep worry about safety in the Black Sea, Sea of Azov and Ormuz Strait, condemning attacks on commercial ships, crews and essential infrastructure. Both organisations urged all parties to respect international law, safeguard seafarers, and maintain reliable diplomatic efforts to prevent further loss of life and supply disruptions.