Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz slowed after a series of tanker attacks, data released on August 16, 2026, showed. The Strait is a major oil transit route for countries in Asia and the Middle East. The International Maritime Organization reported a 12 percent reduction in vessel traffic compared with the previous week. Regional naval forces confirmed three incidents involving tankers between August 10 and August 15. Shipping companies rerouted vessels to alternative passages, increasing transit times by an average of two days. Oil analysts noted a modest rise in spot prices as market participants monitored the situation. The Iranian Ministry of Defence stated that investigations were ongoing and that no casualties were reported. The duration of the slowdown remains unclear as investigations continue.