How much did oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz decline in Q1 2026 compared to the previous year, and what was the absolute volume?

Oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz fell by nearly 6 million barrels per day in the first quarter of 2026, dropping to roughly 14.6 million barrels per day — down from 20.4 million barrels per day a year earlier.

What is the strategic significance of the Strait of Hormuz disruption described in the article, and how has it affected global energy markets?

The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively closed since the beginning of the war in Iran, cutting off a vital route for about a quarter of the world’s seaborne oil; this disruption has upended global supplies, sent Brent futures surging more than 45% since the conflict began, pushed US national retail gasoline prices above $4.50 a gallon, and contributed to a 6% year-on-year rise in the US producer price index in April — the sharpest monthly gain since 2022.

Hormuz Oil Flows Fell Nearly 30% Last Quarter, EIA Says

May 13, 2026

US Energy Information Administration reports crude oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz fell nearly 30% in Q1 2026, causing a seismic energy shock and surging global oil prices.

bloomberg

2026-05-13

Hormuz Oil Flows Fell Nearly 30% Last Quarter, EIA Says

Hormuz Oil Flows Fell Nearly 30% Last Quarter, EIA Says

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