Global oil prices surged sharply after at least three vessels were attacked near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy corridors. According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations Centre (UKMTO), two ships were struck, while a projectile exploded near a third.
The strait, through which around 20% of global oil and gas supplies pass, is effectively paralyzed, with more than 150 tankers anchored and waiting. Iran has warned vessels to avoid transiting the area, while tensions with the United States and Israel continue to escalate. In Asian markets, oil prices initially jumped by more than 10%, with Brent crude reaching $78.72 per barrel. Analysts warn that if the conflict persists and maritime traffic does not resume, prices could exceed $100 per barrel.
Meanwhile, the OPEC+ group has decided to increase production by 206,000 barrels per day in an effort to ease market pressure, but experts remain skeptical about the real impact of this measure. Danish shipping company Maersk has announced the diversion of vessels from several key maritime routes, while the situation in the region remains tense.