Hormuz Tanker Transits Drop to Single Digits Amid Deepening Crisis

Key Facts

1Only nine commodity carriers passed through the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday, a sharp decline from the 10-day average of 18.

Only nine commodity carriers passed through the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday, a sharp decline from the 10-day average of 18 vessels. Reuters reported that rising regional tensions have led to a significant plunge in shipping traffic, with the latest data showing a further deterioration from already depressed levels.

The shortage of available tankers has pressured shipping costs, with rates for very large crude carriers hitting record highs. In related energy data, the API Crude Oil Stock Change report from September 22, 2026, showed an increase of 1.786 million barrels, contrasting with a forecast decline of 0.5 million barrels.