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
