Middle East oil exports top pre-war levels in September, but tanker attacks increase
USO•Middle East crude exports exceeded pre-war levels on 14 days in September, reaching a seven-day average of 18.3 million barrels per day on September 30, Kpler data showed. At least seven tanker incidents were reported in the past week.
1. Exports rise
Middle East crude exports exceeded pre-war levels on 14 days in September, including shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea and from terminals. Kpler data put the region’s seven-day average at 18.3 million barrels per day on September 30, while Vortexa’s 14-day average for crude and condensate exports reached 18.6 million barrels per day.
2. Tanker attacks continue
Marisks said at least seven incidents were reported in the past week. The tanker Kazimah III was reportedly struck by an unknown projectile in the Strait of Hormuz on October 1, and the Aframax tanker Lipsi was reportedly struck on October 4, damaging its engine room. The crews of both vessels were reported safe, with no casualties.
3. Regional supply details
Kpler said Saudi Arabia’s shipments from the Red Sea and the Gulf drove the export increase, while Iraqi tankers and refiners loaded Basrah crude inside the strait after Iraq secured Iranian permission for its tankers to pass. LNG cargoes exiting the Strait of Hormuz also rose in September to their highest level since February.
