Supertankers Make Rare U-Turns In Strait Of Hormuz Amid Tensions
At least four oil supertankers abruptly changed course away from the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, according to shipping data analyzed by Reuters. The unusual maneuvers come amid heightened tensions between Iran and the West, raising concerns about potential disruptions to global oil supplies.
The vessels, including the 300,000-tonne VLCC Atlantas, were originally bound for the critical waterway that handles 20% of the world's oil shipments. Satellite tracking showed them executing sharp turns in the Gulf of Oman before diverting to alternate routes. Shipping analysts called the coordinated diversions "highly unusual" for vessels of this size.
The Strait of Hormuz has been a flashpoint since Iran seized a Greek tanker last week in retaliation for the U.S. confiscation of Iranian oil. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed Monday that the Biden administration is "monitoring the situation closely" as oil prices climbed 2.3% in early trading.
Maritime security firm Dryad Global advised clients to exercise "extreme caution" when transiting the area. The U.S. Fifth Fleet, based in Bahrain, has increased patrols but declined to comment on specific vessel movements. Energy analysts warn prolonged disruptions could push gasoline prices higher ahead of the summer driving season.
This development is trending in the U.S. as consumers face rising fuel costs and geopolitical tensions threaten global energy markets. The last similar incident occurred in 2019 when Iran impounded a British tanker, causing temporary spikes at American gas pumps.
Shipping insurance premiums for the region have reportedly doubled in recent days. The diverted tankers are now taking the longer route around Africa's Cape of Good Hope, adding 15 days and $1 million in fuel costs per voyage. Industry sources say at least six more vessels are reconsidering Hormuz transits this week.
The American Automobile Association reported a 12-cent national average gasoline price increase over the past month, with further rises likely if the situation escalates. The Energy Information Administration will release updated oil inventory data Wednesday that could show the early market impacts.
