# Two Oil Tankers Attacked in Strait of Hormuz Iranian forces target vessels allegedly violating maritime navigation rules in strategic waterway. - **Source:** [NOS Nieuws](https://nos.nl) - **Published:** 2026-11-12 - **Topic:** [world](https://brifing.si/c/world) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/9ffebdd5-f803-437b-b42d-fc191525b36a ## Tankers Targeted in Strait Iranian authorities reported the disabling of two large oil tankers within the Strait of Hormuz overnight. The vessels were allegedly carrying approximately 4 million barrels of crude oil combined. Explosions occurred following the incidents, resulting in fires on board. The current status of the crew members remains unknown at this time. ## Disputed Navigation Rules Iran claims the tankers failed to adhere to specific navigation routes mandated by the state. According to Iranian media reports, the vessels received multiple warnings before the attacks were initiated. These claims regarding the vessels' non-compliance have not yet been independently verified, and the flags of the ships remain currently unidentified. ## Escalating Maritime Tensions The Strait of Hormuz has become a flashpoint for conflict since the United States and Israel initiated military actions against Iran earlier this year. Both the United States and Iran have unilaterally established competing maritime regulations for the narrow waterway. These conflicting rules have led to repeated attacks on commercial shipping vessels. ## History of Regional Attacks Iran has been held responsible for dozens of attacks on commercial tankers since the beginning of the year. Conversely, the United States has also targeted multiple ships that failed to comply with American-imposed maritime regulations. This cycle of retaliatory strikes continues to disrupt the safety of international shipping lanes in the region. ## Strategic Global Chokepoint The Strait of Hormuz serves as a critical artery for global trade due to its narrow geography. Nations including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Iran rely on this passage for the export of essential raw materials. Before the current conflict, approximately 20 percent of the world's total oil supply transited here. ## Diverse Commodity Transit Beyond crude oil, the waterway is essential for the transport of liquefied natural gas, diesel, and chemical industry feedstocks. The reliance on this specific route makes it a primary target for geopolitical maneuvering. Disruptions here directly impact the supply chains of major global economies that depend on these energy resources. ## Impact on Energy Markets The ongoing conflict involving Israel, the United States, and Iran has triggered significant volatility in international energy markets. As a direct consequence of these maritime hostilities, global energy prices have experienced a sharp increase. The instability threatens to maintain upward pressure on costs for consumers and industries worldwide for months. ## Uncertain Future Outlook The lack of independent confirmation regarding the latest attacks complicates diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region. With both major powers enforcing contradictory navigation rules, the risk of further escalation remains high. Observers are monitoring the situation closely to determine if these incidents will lead to broader disruptions in global trade. ## Sources covering this story - https://nos.nl/l/2639133 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._