Brief
Gulf oil producers sustain high crude flows through Hormuz despite Iranian pressure
Marine‑tracking data shows 13.1 million barrels per day moved through the strait last week, according to Gulf News.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Gulf oil producers are moving roughly 13.1 million barrels of crude per day through the Strait of Hormuz, about 80% of the pre‑war volume, according to marine‑tracking firm Kpler.
What happened
During the week ending 30 September 2026, Kpler recorded an average flow of 13.1 million barrels per day through the strategic waterway. The volume is below the 17.1 million barrels per day that crossed the strait before the Iran‑related conflict began.
What the reports add
Gulf News reported that the high flow is supported by U.S. Navy‑backed workarounds, including military‑escorted tanker shuttles and “dark” transits where AIS tracking is switched off. The outlet also noted that Saudi Arabia has redirected barrels back toward Hormuz after disruptions to its East‑West pipeline.
What was said
“Given such a strong volume passing through the strait, it is clear Iran is losing its influence over it,” Matt Smith, Kpler’s director of commodity research, told CNN.
How it came about
Earlier this month Felo News reported that Gulf producers used alternative pipelines and routes after Iran blocked the strait, keeping oil exports at 72% of pre‑war levels (see article). The current high flow reflects continued U.S. naval protection and the re‑routing of shipments, despite ongoing Iranian pressure.
Key facts
- Oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz averaged 13.1 million barrels per day last week. (gulfnews.com)
- The volume represents about 80% of the 17.1 million barrels per day recorded before the war began. (gulfnews.com)
- Matt Smith of Kpler said the high volume shows Iran’s waning influence over the strait. (gulfnews.com)
Sources
- [1] gulfnews.com — originally reported as “Defying war fears, Gulf oil producers keep massive crude flows moving through Strait of Hormuz”
