Oil prices rose sharply on Thursday as concerns over global energy supplies increased after a record number of attacks on commercial tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, climbed more than 5% to around $105.46 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate reached approximately $92.82 per barrel.
According to Kpler, only seven oil tankers crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, less than half the average recorded during the previous seven days and the lowest level since July 23. Between September 28 and October 4, ten commercial tankers were attacked in the area, surpassing the previous weekly record of six attacks.
The situation has increased concerns about the security of crews, cargo, and energy shipments moving through the Persian Gulf. In one of the most recent incidents, a tanker reported being hit by multiple projectiles, causing casualties, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations agency.
Oil markets also faced additional pressure from Hurricane Isaias, which was moving toward the U.S. Gulf Coast, an important center for oil production and refining. Shell and Chevron announced production reductions and evacuations of non-essential personnel in response to the storm.
The increase in oil prices also affected European energy markets, where natural gas and diesel prices rose. The International Energy Agency stated that member countries still hold significant emergency oil reserves and are prepared to release additional supplies if necessary to stabilize the market.
Reference
CNN en Español. (2026, October 8). Los precios del petróleo se disparan tras una cifra récord de ataques a buques petroleros en el estrecho de Ormuz. CNN.
https://cnnespanol.cnn.com/2026/10/08/mundo/precios-petroleo-ataques-ormuz-trax