Gulf exports more oil than it did before Iran war despite surge in Hormuz attacks

The Middle East is now exporting more oil than it did before the US-Israeli war on Iran began on 28 February, posing a challenge to the Islamic Republic as it looks to cement its control over the Strait of Hormuz and as the US and Israel threaten a new attack. Gulf countries exported 24.6 million barrels per day (bpd) in the week ending 18 October, surpassing prewar levels of 23.3 million bpd, according to data released by energy analytics firm Kpler. The surge in exports comes at a time when Iran's attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz have also surged. At least 12 attacks took place last week, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). A fully-laden container ship owned by the UAE sank last week in the Strait of Hormuz after likely being hit by a projectile. Read more: Gulf exports more oil than it did before Iran war despite surge in Hormuz attacks Vessels are seen in the Strait of Hormuz, from Musandam, Oman, on 19 October 2026 (Stringer/Reuters)