US Central Command reports 1.5 billion barrels of oil exported through Strait of Hormuz

OPA WIRE, Oct 26 (OPA) — U.S. Central Command reported Sunday that more than 3,000 commercial vessels have successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz under U.S. military support over the past six months. Officials stated that over 95 percent of ships navigated the channel safely, asserting that the United States and its regional partners maintain control over the critical international waterway.

Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, observed regional operations from a U.S. Army helicopter during a recent visit. Cooper stated that the primary transit routes remain clear of Iranian mines due to intensive clearance operations. He emphasized that the U.S. remains committed to ensuring freedom of navigation alongside the Gulf Cooperation Council and the shipping industry.

Crude oil flows have largely recovered to pre-war levels, reaching approximately 16.5 million barrels per day in September, according to data from Kpler. This rebound follows the February conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. Analysts credit the stabilization to a combination of offshore ship-to-ship transfers, increased pipeline usage, and U.S. military escort operations.

Despite the stabilization of transit volumes, energy markets remain volatile. Brent crude futures were priced at approximately $114.50 a barrel on Sunday, significantly higher than the $72.48 recorded on February 27, the day before the conflict began. While prices have eased from recent six-month highs, the ongoing threat of Iranian interference continues to influence global oil market sentiment.