Tankers Navigate Strait of Hormuz Amid Iranian Threats Using New Tactics Tankers from Western countries have increasingly turned off tracking devices to bypass Iranian surveillance and safely transit through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping route. This strategy, revealed by shipping data provider Kpler, marks a significant shift in how oil carriers navigate the region amid heightened tensions with Iran. The move comes as Gulf nations seek to maintain uninterrupted oil exports despite ongoing geopolitical instability. Two additional tankers crossed the strait in recent weeks, with details of their journeys shedding light on the evolving dynamics of maritime security. On May 1, 2026, the Basrah Energy tanker, operated by the Iraqi oil company, departed from ADNOC’s Sir Bani Yas terminal in Abu Dhabi. It transported 2 million barrels of crude oil and successfully navigated the strait, arriving at Fujairah’s oil terminal on May 5. The vessel, flagged under Panama, was chartered by Sinokor Shipping, though the company did not comment on the operation. Further reports indicate that the Kiyar M tanker, also flagged under Panama, followed a similar route. Carrying 2 million barrels of Iraqi crude, it passed through the strait on May 8. However, details about its final destination remain unclear, highlighting the growing opacity of shipping movements in the region. The shift to disabling tracking systems reflects broader efforts by Gulf states and their partners to counter Iranian attempts to disrupt oil flows. Since the 2024 U.S.-Iran conflict, Iran has intensified its presence in the Gulf, using both military and cyber tactics to target commercial vessels. In response, companies like ADNOC have adopted measures to reduce the risk of detection, including deactivating satellite tracking devices.#iran #strait_of_hormuz #adnoc #kpler #sinokor_shipping
Fire hits site housing Abu Dhabi National Oil Company operations after drone strike Abu Dhabi authorities are addressing a fire at the Ruwais Industrial Complex following a drone attack, according to the emirate’s government media office. The incident occurred on Tuesday, with no reported injuries. The complex, which houses facilities operated by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), is a critical hub for the emirate’s downstream oil operations. These facilities have the capacity to refine up to 922,000 barrels of oil per day and include significant chemical, fertilizer, and industrial gas production plants. The drone strike triggered the fire, though details about the attack’s origin or intent remain unclear. Officials have not yet provided further specifics on the extent of damage or the status of ongoing investigations. The Ruwais Industrial Complex is a key component of ADNOC’s infrastructure, supporting both refining and petrochemical activities that contribute to the UAE’s energy and industrial sectors. The incident highlights the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to targeted attacks, raising concerns about security measures at strategic facilities. While the government has confirmed no casualties, the potential disruption to operations could impact regional energy supply chains. ADNOC, a state-owned entity, plays a central role in the UAE’s economy, and any disruption to its facilities would have broader implications for oil production and exports. The drone strike also underscores the growing risks posed by unmanned aerial systems to industrial and energy sites. Security experts have previously warned about the increasing sophistication of such threats, emphasizing the need for enhanced protective measures.#abu_dhabi #abu_dhabi_national_oil_company #ruwais_industrial_complex #adnoc #drone_strike
