Tanker Hit in Hormuz as October Attacks Reach Record High

A tanker was struck by an unknown projectile in the Strait of Hormuz on 23 October. The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency confirmed the incident. That puts October on track as the worst month for commercial shipping attacks in the waterway since the conflict started.

UKMTO issued a security alert. Mariners were advised to use caution. No name was given for the tanker in the alert.

BOE Report and Gulf Times published data showing that October 2026 has produced more tanker and cargo strikes in the Strait of Hormuz than any previous month since maritime hostilities began in the region. Oil markets held their position, with traders watching Iran-US developments closely and weighing potential disruptions to supply from the waterway.

On 16 October, the crude oil tanker MT ST 3 was struck in a similar projectile attack while transiting the strait. All 15 Indian crew members were reported safe shortly after. Strikes have now been recorded across the transit lanes and into the northern Persian Gulf throughout the month.