Uncertainty in the Strait of Hormuz continues to put pressure on Iraqi oil flows.
Uncertainty in the Strait of Hormuz continues to put pressure on Iraqi oil flows.
2026-06-04
Shafaq News – Follow-up
The “uncertainty” surrounding shipping in the Strait of Hormuz continues to cast a shadow over oil flows from the Gulf states, including Iraq, despite indications of a limited increase in oil tanker traffic in recent weeks.
According to an analysis published by Reuters, the amount of oil stored on tankers within the Gulf has decreased from 184 million barrels last March to about 148 million barrels currently, indicating a relative acceleration in the departure of oil shipments from the region.
Despite this, traffic through the strait remains far below normal levels, with the average number of oil tankers passing through being only about three per day, compared to rates recorded before the crisis, amid continuing security risks and rising marine insurance costs.
Analysts believe that restoring oil flows to their normal levels requires greater stability in maritime navigation and the return of empty tankers to Gulf ports, which is a key factor for resuming regular production and exports, which will benefit oil-producing countries in the region, including Iraq.
shafaq.com
