Iranian tankers are accumulating outside the Strait of Hormuz, indicating an adaptive response to U.S. sanctions. The U.S. is maintaining a blockade, delaying Iranian oil exports. Significant quantities of Iranian crude oil remain on water, sufficient to meet China's import needs for several months.
Iranian ‘shadow fleet’ tankers are testing loopholes in the US naval blockade, with over 20 empty tankers available. Some vessels are not subject to US sanctions, raising concerns about circumvention. This activity challenges the effectiveness of the US naval blockade and highlights Iran’s continued efforts to export oil.