Accra:Iranian attacks on vessels in and around the Strait of Hormuz have reached unprecedented levels since the conflict with the United States began on February 28, with six ships targeted in a single day. This information comes from data provided by the UK Maritime Trade Operations agency (UKMTO) and other international maritime security sources.

According to Anadolu Agency, more than 18 commercial vessels were targeted by Iran in the first 12 days of October, with six incidents occurring on a single Monday. Between October 5 and 12, at least 14 attacks, attempted attacks, and interceptions involving vessels were recorded in the area.

Data from UKMTO and statements by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) indicate a notable increase in attacks on commercial shipping since hostilities between Tehran and Washington resumed in July. July saw at least 12 attacks on oil tankers and cargo ships, followed by 10 vessels targeted in August, including oil and liquefied natural gas tankers near the UAE port of Fujairah and Oman's Sohar.

The number of targeted vessels rose to 18 in September, as the US and Gulf countries increasingly relied on ship-to-ship transfers, using smaller vessels to transport oil before loading it onto larger tankers in safer areas. The IRGC has claimed these operations are illegal oil smuggling attempts and has expanded its activities to include supply vessels, tugboats, and small tankers in the Gulf. The IRGC also alleges that some targeted vessels sustained damage from explosions after striking naval mines while navigating perceived unsafe routes.

Tehran has stated that the escalation in operations against shipping is a response to a "US naval blockade," warning vessels against using unapproved routes or crossing areas with deactivated navigation systems. Since April, Iran has imposed restrictions on maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, including designated transit routes and a requirement for prior coordination with the IRGC Navy. On May 30, Tehran announced that vessels passing through the strait must obtain prior authorization from the IRGC Navy, warning that unauthorized transit would be considered a "security threat."

These developments occur amid ongoing tensions between Iran and the US over navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy and commodity supplies. The conflict began with US and Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28, leading to a ceasefire in April. Clashes resumed as negotiations stalled, despite the signing of a memorandum of understanding in June between the two sides.