Iran Expands Hormuz Blacklist to 81 Vessels, Claims 19 Targeted in Two Nights

Iran has expanded its non-compliant vessel blacklist in the Strait of Hormuz to 81 entries and threatened to add charterers, even as Gulf regional exports hit a war-period high.

The Persian Gulf Strait Authority announced the expansion on September 28. Iran's state news agency claimed forces targeted seven vessels on Saturday and 12 the night before, a two-night total of 19. The strikes were not independently confirmed.

Eighty-one vessels are now listed.

The expanded threat to charterers marks a new tactic: operators booking non-compliant vessels could find their own fleet added to the blacklist. Iranian naval officials told state media they hold full control over both approaches to the strait.

Al Jazeera reported that Gulf regional energy exports reached approximately 12.8 million barrels per day in September. That is the highest figure recorded since the conflict began in June. Around 19 vessels completed strait transits in the week ending September 27, suggesting cargo continued moving despite the claimed strikes.

US officials also disclosed on September 28 that eight Marines suffered smoke inhalation and potential traumatic brain injuries during an Iranian cruise missile attack on a vessel in the strait on September 14, an incident not reported publicly until that day.

MarineRadar data shows vessel interest at Quoin Island, the rocky outcrop marking the eastern entrance to the Strait of Hormuz, running at twice its recent baseline over the 48 hours to September 29. The doubling reflects operators and mariners tracking which vessels are attempting transits and how Iran is responding.

The blacklist expansion follows the rejection of Iran's seven-day strait reopening offer. Five days later, three vessels including Cape Dao were struck near the strait on September 23. With Houthi forces now controlling the Bab el-Mandeb and pushing cape-route traffic to record levels, shipping firms face pressure at both major Gulf export chokepoints through the fourth quarter.